Bibledoorajar thinks of the passages of life with the King

     The King has brought our country girl a very long way. In the beginning he never told her what she must attain to, but conditions can be seen all along in their relationship. He first sought to bring her into union with him, totally accepting her just as she was. He spent hours admiring her and complimenting her. As she matured, she dropped certain unacceptable behaviors and began to accept traits of the king in her life. At the end of this process, and with marriage accomplished, she began to bear fruit. In this instance it was a concern for her younger sister. The king had not demanded this particular fruit, but was pleased to discuss the matter with her. He spoke of how important it is to do all possible to save the sister for the greatest of all graces---love. This made the country girl realize more fully that she herself had matured and was walking in this great grace. So she said to Solomon, "Then was I in his eyes as one who found peace." She had found peace through her relationship with Solomon because she had learned the importance of love. She assured Solomon that she had been true to him and wanted to settle any doubt in his heart. He could trust her to the utmost.
     In Galatians 5, the apostle Paul enumerates the graces of the Spirit. These are heavenly characteristics that come first to our mind as we abide with Him and then move into the operation of our personal conduct. These attributes become the basis for our social and practical behavior. The Bible calls them fruits because they issue forth from the life we spend with Christ. They are a welcome addition to life because they smell so sweet. All those around, including the owner of the fruit, feel the advantage of the fruit. During the recent tragedies of tornado, floods, etc., these graces are what victims speak as characterizing those who came to help. It gave them an advantage; it gave them hope that there could be love and concern in the midst of chaos.
     Some say that all the graces are just aspects of the greatest--love. I think this is true, but the Bible does seem to say that some may walk in greatness of a particular grace. For instance, I am thinking of Moses. The Bible says he was the meekest of men. He would have had to be to contend with the foibles of God people, Israel! And the King knew that and patiently weaved the trait into his life.  God is good. Together, with all our various graces, the body of Christ is indeed a sweet smelling savor in the world. Praise God!