Twenty-one year old John had quickly become a prominent person in the seafaring industry.

He was captain of a ship that transported slaves from Africa. The manner in which he and

the members of his crew treated these slaves was unspeakable. Over 25% of the slaves

from each voyage died enroute because of poor conditions.

The slaves were kept down below in the galley. There was little light and it was very

damp, causing much illness. John and his crew would often beat the slaves, some even

to death! John and his crew would also go down below and rape the women and even

children! One night a terrible storm struck and John's shipped was tossed and turned. He

and his crew thought the end was near. Death was imminent and John realized his

situation. That night he prayed, "God, if you will get me through this storm I will change

my ways and give my life to you." God extended His grace and mercy that evening and

the ship was spared. When John returned to his homeland he resigned his position and

never again was involved in the slave industry. That night had changed his life.

Later, John went on to write these words, "Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that

saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see!" The

hymn favorite "Amazing Grace" was penned by the former slave driver, John Newton. I

believe the reason why this hymn has touched so many lives and remained such a favorite

through the years is because John Newton wrote about experiencing God's grace from a

first hand point of view. He knew the extent, just how amazing, God's grace really is,

because of what it had done to him.

God's grace is still amazing today. It saved me. Once I was in a position like John. I

was a wretch, seemingly without hope. But God poured His grace out on me and changed

my life. How about you? Do you feel hopeless and helpless? God's not out of grace! He

will pour it out on you if you will only ask Him to . If you are a child of God, then reflect on

how amazing God's grace has been and is every day of your life. It's still amazing, isn't it?

"Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come. "T'was grace that

brought me safe this far and grace t'will lead me home."