The way I understand it John "love from a pure heart is the goal of the instruction" and the reality is that we are inadequate and unable to love the way God does without a lot of help. We don't love Him the way we should, we don't love ourselves, and we don't love others. We are too quick to point the finger and deny (the old Adamic nature). Growth happens when we get brutally honest before God and with ourselves; when we begin to deal with these issues and come to Him calling dirt what He calls it and repenting on His terms, then grace is there to make it happen. None of us has got to stay locked in to ungodly behavior. jt
I am not sure this actually answers my question, but it is a very good explanation. I would argue that grace takes it's advantage even before we repent. Growth is not possible without repentance (a change of mind) and you seem to be saying that.
I use "seem" only because I believe that you have grown somewhat in this discussion group and I do not believe what I am hearing. I know I have grown while in the group via Izzy, Lance, BillyT and the old hick from wherever -- Mr Terry. If you do not agree that you have changed or amended or grown in your belief system, I will make an observation that is written in stone. In the last few posts, there is a softening on your part that allows for a more effect period of discussion. You are a very articulate gal (for one who is grossly uneducated) and I have appreciated the past several posts. The words of friends carry much more impact than the conversation of the enemy. Good night
John
