The Blessings of Calling, Grace, Peace, Rescue & Forgiveness

Text: Galatians 1:1-4
Theme: We are incredibly blessed because of Jesus!
Key verses: “Paul, an emissary commissioned directly by Jesus…” (v. 1). “May the grace and peace of God the Father ad The Lord Jesus, our Liberator, live in you; He is the very Savior who rescues us from this present, perverse age dominated by evil by giving His life according to our Father’s will to deal with our sins.”
What God said to me: Dwayne, Paul got it. He really got it. Even at the onset of this famous letter Paul wasted no time espousing some outstanding ways I had blessed him and those to whom he was writing. Let’s look at the key words he used to describe their–and your–situation because of me. First, notice Paul started by declaring he was my emissary commissioned directly by me. He wasn’t only laying a foundation of credibility to be read and heard by the Galatians. He was expressing his humble gratitude for what I had done in his life. I’ve also called you, Dwayne. I didn’t shine a blinding ray of light on you, but I drew your heart many years ago when you still a child. I sought you and predestined you to be conformed into the image of my dear son. Do you have any idea what a blessing of love I showed to you? Then Paul uses the words grace and peace. Let those powerful words settle into your soul now. You have my grace and you have deep abiding peace–which only I can give you. Rest in those words and be thankful. Furthermore, I have rescued you. You’re not going to hell. You won’t be destroyed because of your many sins. You have been delivered from the evil of this world. Greater am I in you than Satan that’s in the world. Finally, Paul used the potent phrase “deal with your sins.” Because of my sacrifice I have dealt with your sins. My Father will never hold them against you. You have access to the throne and entrance into heaven. Why? Because I’ve all that’s required (leaving heaven, suffering, dying, rising again) to deal with your sins. Dwayne, you are blessed. Now live like you are!
What I said to God: Thank You Lord for saving my soul. Thank You Lord for making me whole. Thank You Lord for giving to me Your kind salvation so strong and free. Forgive me for not living like I’m leaving and living like I’m so incredibly blessed!