Ever noticed how Paul starts most of his letters with a blessing of grace, peace, and mercy? It’s like his go-to greeting! Lately, I’ve been thinking about why he did this. Maybe it was one of his secrets to thriving in his ministry. Whether he was free or in prison, Paul consistently did what God called him to do. Could it be that relying on God’s grace, peace, and mercy was his superpower?
1 Corinthians 1:3 (NLT) “May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.”
1 Corinthians 1:3 (AMP)“Grace to you and peace [inner calm and spiritual well-being] from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
2 John 1:3 (NIV)“Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.”
God’s Peace
God’s peace is more than just a lack of conflict; it’s an inner calm and sense of well-being. It’s a peace that surpasses all understanding, allowing us to sing joyfully, “It is well with my soul,” even when life feels like a whirlwind. That’s God’s peace—steady and unwavering, even in chaos.
God’s grace is His unmerited favour. It’s kindness and benevolence way beyond what we deserve. His grace is evident in the gift of salvation: “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Even when we were most undeserving, He brought us close, giving us access to Him and eternal life. This same grace speaks for us today. We mess up, but as often as we come in repentance, He forgives and washes us clean. His grace is His love, His covering over our weaknesses and failings. Indeed, His grace is sufficient for us.
God’s Mercy
God’s mercy is His heart of compassion toward us. It’s because of His mercy that we are not consumed. His mercy means we don’t get the punishment we deserve. Instead, we receive His love and compassion, guiding us back to Him.
I want to consciously rely on the grace, mercy, and peace of God daily. To invoke them as Paul often does in his letters. To meditate on these divine gifts as I go through my day. So help me God.
Let’s take a moment today to embrace God’s grace, peace, and mercy. May they be with you, guiding and strengthening you every step of the way.
