We’ve all heard the “when Life hands you lemons, make lemonade” adage. In general, that is good advice that we all could use from time to time.

But, I want to look beyond lemons and lemonade.

Like the essence of lemonade, Life is also both sweet and sour–often in the same sip.

We all have those moments when Life presses in. It can be overwhelming! But what squeezes out of you? Do you complain with sour and bitter notes? Or rejoice in sweet and refreshing tastes of grace?

When Life turns sour, it is easy to get sucked into a negative perspective, and then pass that poison onto others. In my experience, this is draining and can actually be harmful. Yet, God’s sweet grace is always present… Grace is a gift, and is beyond anything we can do for ourselves. Grace changes everything!!

Psalm 34:8 says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” May we seek the Father’s heart, and turn to Him in our time of need.

He loves to take good care of us!

God loves to redeem these negative experiences and bring new purpose and perspective to our lives. According to Romans 8:28, “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” This verse does NOT say that all things are good. Yet, God alone can bring good from ALL the sour moments we encounter. How refreshing!

God’s grace is vital to living a fulfilled Life. The effects of living by this grace are threefold–peace with God, ourselves, and other people.

First, grace reconciles us to our Creator God, restoring a loving relationship with Him through Christ Jesus’ death on the Cross (John 3:16). Second, God’s grace sets us each on His unique path for us as individuals. Grace empowers us to live out what He has called us to do, through obedience as we listen to the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:8-10). And finally, by being gracious in our relationships, God is glorified and lives are changed.

Let us extend to others, the grace we have received! Love like it! Live like it!