Grace and Mercy!

I don't know about you, but Monday's are hard for me!  I had an early meeting this morning so when my alarm rang, I hit snooze three times before getting out of bed.  I just wanted to sleep in!  After I finally made my way out of bed, I knew I was going to need divine intervention in order to get through the day. 

During my prayer time, I asked God to give me compassion and peace throughout the day. At the time, I had no idea why I was asking God for these two things.  But God knew... 

First, two situations arose today (both of them occurred before 12N) where I could have responded with mercilessness, or with compassion.  One situation involved a stranger, the other involved a friend.  I chose compassion both times. 

Then, mid morning I had a conversation with my mother during which she shared some information with me about a "friend" of mine.  The conversation was one that would normally be stressful for me but as I was talking to her I felt a wave of peace come over me.  I literally felt the weight of the stress I was carrying about this person lighten.  I knew then that God had heard my prayer that morning and that He had His hands all over me. 

Now, as I get ready for bed and reflect on this day, I am grateful for God's grace and mercy towards me!  For without it, I would not be able to extend it to others. 

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.  Philippians 4:8-9