Preview of Steps of Grace: Walking the Path of Restoration and Growth
Chapter 1: The Heart of God’s Love
The journey of grace begins with understanding the profound love of God. It is a love that is unconditional, unchanging, and unfathomable. God’s love is not based on who we are but on who He is. As 1 John 4:16 declares, “God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” This truth forms the foundation of our spiritual journey.
In Psalm 139, David marvels at the intimate knowledge God has of each one of us:
“You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar... For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:1–13).
God’s love seeks us even when we are lost. It is a love that welcomes us back, as illustrated in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32). Despite the son’s rebellion, the father’s arms were open wide, ready to embrace him upon his return. This is the heart of God’s love—a love that meets us where we are and invites us into restoration and relationship.
Philip Yancey reflects this beautifully: “The Maker of all things loves and wants me…” (The Jesus I Never Knew, 269). These words resonate deeply because they address the core longing of every human heart—to be known, loved, and wanted.
God’s Grace in Action
Understanding God’s love is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is an invitation to experience grace. Grace is God’s unmerited favor, freely given to us. Brennan Manning captures this truth: “God loves you unconditionally, as you are and not as you should be, because nobody is as they should be” (All Is Grace: A Ragamuffin Memoir, 192). This grace meets us in our brokenness, forgives our failures, and restores us to His family. It is the foundation upon which the steps of repentance, confession, and consecration are built.
Chapter 14: The End of the Matter: Embracing the Fullness of Grace
As we conclude the journey of restoration and growth, we are called to reflect on the fullness of grace. Grace is not merely a gift to be received; it is a power that transforms and equips us to live with joy and purpose. Paul’s words in Philippians 4:4–7 remind us of the fruits of a grace-filled life:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Living out grace involves trusting in God’s promises, serving others with love, and finding peace in His presence. Grace calls us to rise above our doubts and fears, anchoring ourselves in the assurance of God’s unchanging love. Romans 8:38–39 declares:
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
A Final Call
Where are you in your walk with God? Each of us is on a journey, and grace invites us to take the next step. Perhaps it is surrendering a burden, deepening your prayer life, or serving others with greater compassion. Whatever it may be, God’s grace empowers you to move forward.
The end of the matter is this: God’s grace is sufficient, His love is steadfast, and His plans for you are good. Embrace the fullness of grace, and step boldly into the life He has prepared for you.