Have you ever heard the phrase “say grace” in reference to praying over your meal? Maybe this whole idea of praying over the meal and giving thanks comes from the idea that when we praying we really are claiming and proclaiming God’s grace and goodness to us? Apart from God’s grace, none of us would be where we are nor have anything that we possess. James 1:15 is clear about every perfect gift comes from God. There’s nothing we have that we didn’t receive. And there’s plenty more that we have deserved, like judgement, negative consequences, guilt and shame, not to mention death and Hell, that God has soared those who freely receive His grace.

When we are reminded of our shortcomings and sin, we simply have to say “grace”. The blood of Jesus and the grace of His love cover us and forgive us. Saying grace is another way of giving thanks because we are achknowledging our need and gratitude for all Godbhas done through Christ our Lord.

Practice this by saying grace over your meals. In private and public, pray over your meals and acknowledge that even your food and drinks come from God’s hands. As He has supplied for your physical needs He will also supply for your spiritual needs.

Also be mindful today of some of the ways God has forgiven you and blessed you to be where you are. Yes, remembering can sometimes be painful but simply say “grace”.

Ephesians 2:8

Paraphrase: For by His grace you have been saved through faith in Jesus Christ; it is the working of God and a free gift to all who believe. There’s nothing you can do to earn it.

Ponder:

What really brings you to a place of gratitude with God?

How does remembering your shortcomings and sin affect you?

Do you pray over your meals? Why or why not?

Prayer:

Lord thank you for all you have done! Thank you for the grace and mercy you have shown me; for the life, death and resurrection of Christ so that my sin would be forgiven. Thank you that you do not hold my sin against me but have freely and graciously shown me grace time and time again. My heart is full of gratitude for all you have done and all the good you have allowed to fall on me. Help me today to live in light of your saving grace and extend that grace to those around.