Busted!

Busted! I knew he was coming after me as soon as I saw him turn on the flashing lights. I had just managed to fly past the state trooper... 15 miles over the speed limit.

“Ma’am, do you know how fast you were going? May I see your driver’s license and registration?” It’s interesting how such simple questions can cause a near-heart attack. We both knew I was guilty. As I waited for the officer to write up the ticket, I could hardly believe my ears when he returned. “I’m going to cut you a break and give you a warning. Drive carefully now.”

I didn’t deserve the grace he gave me that day. But his words did not go unheeded. I bet I was the safest driver on Interstate 80 that afternoon. Do you know what really motivated me? It was that state trooper giving me a second chance. Even though he would never know, I wanted to “live out” my gratitude.

The Bible says it is grace that teaches us to say "no" to ungodliness. Although laws are necessary, laws can’t really change us. They serve to keep us in line, to protect us. Grace, however, moves from the inside out. It’s fueled by gratefulness. We don’t want to let down the one who “cut us a break.” Not if we really know how guilty we are. We express our gratitude for not getting what we deserve by living for Him.

Grace. What a powerful thing it is!

Thank you Lord for not giving us what we deserve. Help us to live out our gratitude for your glory. Amen.

Go Deeper ― Take a few minutes to consider all the times God has not given you what you deserve. Then thank Him, thank Him, thank Him.