If Not for Your Grace


Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 (NLT)


I have come to find that my efforts alone are worthless when it comes to achieving anything I set out to accomplish. I fail time and time again when I try to do things on my own. If it were not for the grace of God, I would not be able to go forward successfully in what God has called me to do.

Even when I get lost in finding my way through everyday routines — fighting to remain focused on the goals I have set? I find that I can do nothing without Him. I often struggle because I am a “doer” by nature. My works often get me wrapped up in a performance mentality. I find myself doing enough just to get by rather than producing what I am capable of through His grace. Can you relate?

We are to commit and trust our works to the Lord. As it says in Proverbs 16:3, then He will cause our thoughts to become agreeable to His will and our plans will be established and succeed. This has become one of my go-to-scriptures when I am feeling overwhelmed. It puts me back into focus and helps me get out of my own way again. I recognize that I don’t have to have everything be perfect, I just need to relax and trust Him.

I encourage you today to rest in God’s grace upon your life. Rest in knowing that He will help you overcome every challenge you will ever face.

Prayer: Father, we take so much pride in doing what we know is best. We get lost in our own ability and neglect the help you have freely given. Teach us to value your grace in our everyday life. Teach us to recognize the grace you have given us to accomplish what you have called us to. I pray that every day we will commit our works to you so that you will establish our thoughts. May our eyes be open to the countless rewards that await us when we do it your way and not our own. In Jesus name, amen.

Thought: Is there something you just can’t seem to get right on your own? Write it down and present it to God. Ask for His help. Then remain in the trust that He will, in time, provide what you need.

By Mary Pinckney
Used by Permission

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Further Reading

• Trading Flaws for Grace –  by Kathy Cheek

Mercy and Grace – by Dr. Bill Bright

Grace Upon Grace – by Roy Lessin