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.
