I looked up the definition for the word “Grace”—the granting of a favor or the manifestation of goodwill, especially by a superior; an unmerited gift; undeserving but granted anyways. Hmm, undeserving, but granted anyways. Try this definition as well:

Because of his kindness you have been saved through trusting Christ. And even trusting is not of yourselves; it too is a gift from God.
—Ephesians 2:8

Do you know the story of John Newton? He wrote the great hymn, “Amazing Grace.” His father was a sea captain, and he eventually became one also; he owned his own ship and participated in the profitable slave trade business. He had no religious convictions.

In May of 1748, his ship was in a violent storm. He recorded in his journal that when all seemed lost and the ship would surely sink, he cried out, “Lord, have mercy upon us!” He believed that God talked to him in that storm and that “grace” had begun to work in him.

Today, Lord, Your grace has come our way. We once were lost but now found, were blind but now we see. We did not deserve this, but You gave it to us anyways. Thank you!

As you read these lyrics, think of the man who wrote them in the midst of the storm. Amazing!

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

T’was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
‘Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

When we’ve been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’ve first begun.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

Have a Thankful Day.