A good friend recently offered to put laminate flooring in our master bedroom at his cost. He had the work done while we were on vacation, so it was a wonderful surprise to come home to a whole new look to our sleeping space.

I had written a check and knew it would be deposited on Wednesday of this week. I was aware I needed to put more money in the account. Though we have overdraft protection on our personal account, I hate to activate it, so I made it to the bank in time to transfer money from my business account. Sadly, i discovered the next day that I had an outstanding payment that put that account in the red. Ironically, my attempt at diligence in my finances cost me an overdraft charge of $34.

This morning I woke about 3AM, feeling the shame of my mistake. I bemoaned that I couldn’t seem to win for losing. In my grief, I asked God to draw near to reassure me of His love. To my surprise, I felt He responded with a compassionate, “Poor baby!” and a kiss on the cheek. Then I remembered brother Paul’s assertion to the Romans, “Where sin increased, grace increased all the more.” (Romans 5:20)

Would I have felt his grace as poignantly if I had not messed up? Probably not in that moment. Was it worth the $34 my mistake cost my finances? Absolutely! Do I wish to overdraft my account again to get another kiss? God forbid! He assures me that His kiss is not predicated on my worthiness, nor do I need to blow it to ask for His affection. I just thank Him for His grace!