God’s grace and mercy brought me through!

One of my favorite songs is entitled, “Grace & Mercy” by the Mississippi Mass Choir. What’s the difference between grace and mercy? Mercy and grace are two vital Christian terms whose meanings are often misunderstood. In short, mercy is God not giving us what we do deserve; grace is God giving us something we do not deserve. By mercy, we are forgiven and God’s wrath no longer rests upon us. By grace, we have been adopted as sons and daughters of God and we call him Father. Mercy has to do with kindness and compassion; it is often spoken of in the context of God’s not punishing us as our sins deserve. Grace includes kindness and compassion, but also carries the idea of bestowing a gift or favor. Those who are favored of God know that God is with them and that nothing can happen to them apart from His good purpose (Romans 8:28). It may help to view mercy as containing some of the same elements of grace (kindness & compassion). The writer of Hebrews blends these two ideas in one powerful statement, teaching us, (15) “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. (16) Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15-16). This passage encourages believers to approach God’s throne with confidence, seeking mercy and grace to help them in times of need, knowing that Jesus, our High Priest, understands our weaknesses and can sympathize with our struggles. God’s grace and mercy brought me through is a phrase often used to express gratitude for God’s kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. Let me say that in spite of my many challenges, hardships, or mistakes, I have been guided, protected, and helped through difficult times by divine grace and mercy. God’s grace and mercy brought me through! Be encouraged!

Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible teacher & expositor