The words grace and peace are found in
all of Paul’s greetings in his New Testament letters to the churches. And in
his letters to Timothy and Titus, he also includes mercy: “Grace,
mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord” (2 Tim. 1:2). Let’s examine each of these
words.
Grace is what our holy God
gives that we, as sinful people, don’t deserve. In Acts 17:25, we learn that “He gives to all
life, breath, and all things.” His gifts include our very next breath. Even in
our darkest hour, strength is given by God so that we can endure.
Mercy is what God withholds
that we do deserve. In Lamentations 3:22, we read, “Through the
Lord’s mercies we are not consumed.” Even when we’re wayward, God gives time
and help for us to turn back to Him.
Peace is what God brings to
His people. Jesus said: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as
the world gives do I give to you” (John 14:27). Even in the worst of times, we
have inner tranquillity because our God is in control.
We can be encouraged that throughout our lives the Lord will give us the
grace, mercy, and peace we need to live for Him.
God’s grace is immeasurable, His mercy is inexhaustible, His peace is inexpressible. (RBC)
