In doing some reading on the "marks of spiritual maturity," one of the things that has bubbled to the top is that graciousness is a key mark of those who are truly placed by God in positions of authority.
What that simply means is that we, at whatever level we've been given, never have to exert or apply authority; we simply reflect the authority of the Lord to others. We can, therefore, afford to be gracious to them because it's not us who is giving them permission or empowering them to minister, it's really God!
Graciousness is not defensive, argumentative or critical. Graciousness responds to negativity with a certain sense of peace because it knows that God is ultimately the One that dispenses His favor.
Graciousness is cultivated by times of communion with the Lord and then making choices to respond not out of the carnal mind, but out of what the Lord reveals to you.
I know this is a little deeper thought than normal, but it is a great bench mark for us to pursue.
Growing with you,
Dr. Jay
true words my friend.
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