Life's Journey

Today we begin our study in Galatians!! Welcome to the first day of our study together. I am excited that you have decided to do this and praying that we will all grow and learn together. If you have a few extra minutes please share your insights, applications, or daily thoughts. Here are today’s verses for you to read…I look forward to fellowshipping with you! We are reading Galatians 1:1-5. I have posted it below.

Galatians 1:1-5″1 Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead— 2 and all the brothers who are with me. To the churches of Galatia:3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

“Week 1 ~ Day 1 – “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Galatians 1:3

The book of Galatians opens with grace and closes with grace. First, Paul reminds the Galatians that he is an apostle, which means “one who is sent”. He declares that he was not sent by man but by God. Then, he uses a familiar phrase used in all of his letters, wishing them both grace and peace. Paul uses the word grace more than any other New Testament writer. He used it over 100 times in his writing and he explains that the grace comes from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins. Take note of the word order that Paul always puts in his greetings. He puts grace first and peace second. We must first experience God’s grace before we experience his peace. The Greek word for grace is caris, which is unmerited favor, or an unearned gift freely given. Because of God’s grace, we have reconciliation and peace with God.

My reflection for today: “Jesus is the perfect gift and all I need.” v4. This verse really stood out to me because that is where it all starts, knowing Him! Grace is so important and it’s definitely unearned. Paul also states, grace before peace, which is interesting ~ Grace comes before Peace. Grace is not earned by us but given as a gift from our amazing God, and we can invite grace into every situation that is unsettling in your life. I like how Paul emphasizes that he is sent by God and not man – remember that each of us has a calling and place that God had designed and set for us, don’t let anyone take that away from you. You are called by God and He has set you here for such a time as this, no matter how big or small you think your place down here is.

Reflection Questions: Is Christ your Savior? How have you experienced the grace and peace of God in your life? When we do not have peace, oftentimes it is because we are not walking in God’s grace. In what area of your life do you need more grace and peace today?