5 Ways to Show Grace to Others

I declared my word for 2015 last week.

While I hope to recognize God's grace in my life every day, I also want to focus on showing grace to others.

I need a plan to put that into action.  What will it look like if I'm showing grace?  Here are five ideas.

• Have compassion. "Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering...."  (Colossians 3:12-13)  I don't know what a fellow mom is going through; I haven't walked in her shoes, dealt with her challenges or limitations.  I want to reach out in compassion and help when I can.

• Don't compare.  "....but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." (II Corinthians 10:12b)  I've written before about releasing ourselves from the comparison trap.  I typically only compare myself with those that will show me in a favorable light.  Grace keeps me from looking down on others while elevating myself.

• Give without expectations.  Whether it's time, money, an act of service, or an actual gift, let me give and expect nothing in return.

• Extend to others the benefit of the doubt.  If I don't understand some one's actions or attitude, let me not jump to conclusions or speculate on their motives. In other words, "Put the very best construction on the actions of others."

• Willingly take second (or third or fourth) place.  " Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another..." (Romans 12:10)  Grace can be evidenced by genuine humility in putting others' needs ahead of my own.

May God, through His Holy Spirit, empower me to live out His grace to others.

What are other ways in which we can show grace to others?