“Don’t be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom.”
Luke 12:32 (WEB)
John Newton lived a harsh life. He rejected God. He harmed others. He ran from man and he ran from God.
You all know his story, at least in part, thanks to the world-renowned hymn that he penned in 1633. Do you recognize these lyrics?
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
and grace my fears relieved.
how precious did that grace appear
the hour I first believed!1
Have you ever thought about why God’s grace might cause man’s heart to fear?
Because if we never realize that our sin separates us from God, then we can’t be saved. God isn’t willing for any man to be condemned. That’s why He pursued John Newton, the vile slave trader. That’s why He pursues you and me. (John 3:17).
And the same grace that makes us fear, leading us to repentance is the precious grace that brings relief when we first believe.
Amazing!
Grace for you and me.
Thank you, Savior.
Share the Good News in your world.
Isaiah 52:7
Use by permission only.
World English Bible (WEB)
by Public Domain. The name “World English Bible” is trademarked.
- Amazing Grace
John Newton
ca. 1633 ↩︎
Getting the Seed out of the basket and into hungry hearts. Matthew 13 