Take pride in this....you're not all that

Preachers take pride in their ability to preach, among other things.  Some in the pews take pride in their ability to witness.  Some pride themselves in leadership.  Others pride themselves in not being prideful. 

Before we get ahead of ourselves, I think it is important to remember what to take pride in.  As Christians, we take pride that in ourselves we're pretty lackluster.  But, by God's grace, we can do amazing things.  That is what crossed my mind after I preach last Sunday, as I thought about the words being sung during our offertory.  

There is a song in The Faith We Sing songbook that reminds us of what we can't take credit for: Grace Alone (#2162).  Read the words from this poem and think about the work you do at your church or on God's behalf.  God's grace is what moves us toward greater faithfulness.  May that be so today.

Every promise we can make,
every prayer and step of faith,
every difference we will make
is only by his grace.

Every mountain we will climb,
every ray of hope we shine,
every blessing left behind,
is only by his grace.

Grace alone which God supplies,
strength unknown he will provide.
Christ in us our Cornerstone;
we will go forth in grace alone.

Every soul we long to reach,
every heart we hope to teach,
everywhere we share his peace
is only by his grace.

Every loving word we say,
every tear we wipe away,
every sorrow turned to praise
is only by his grace.

Grace alone which God supplies,
strength unknown he will provide.
Christ in us our Cornerstone;
we will go forth in grace alone.