Mercy and Grace

Mercy and Grace

"But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),".  Ephesians 2:4-5

"Man, God's been good to me" was my first thought this morning as my eyes opened.  Just waking up to a day of endless possibilities is a gift.  Hearing His voice and simply knowing He's there is a cause for celebration-even before the coffee is brewed.  Yes, any day you wake up and know that God is there is bound to be a good day.... a day full of His love, mercy and grace.

Ever wondered about the love, mercy and grace of God?  As sinners, we don't deserve any of it, that's for sure.   2 Timothy 1:9 says, "For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time--to show us his grace through Christ Jesus".   Ephesians 2:4-5 is one of my favorite scriptures because it combines all three:  Paul says that God is rich in mercy, and because of His great love for us, He saves us by grace.

God is love.  1 John 4:16 says, "We have come to know and to believe in the love God has for us.  God is love and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in him."  It's through His love that He gives us grace and mercy. But the love of God never saved a sinner.  Neither did mercy.   It's only by grace that we are saved, "For it is by grace you have been saved" Ephesians 2:8. 

Wow, isn't that a reason to be happy today?  We get a gift every single day that we don't deserve.  Think of it this way, "Grace" is getting what you don't deserve (gift, leniency, forgiveness), while "Mercy" is not getting what you do deserve (punishment).  All a gift undeserved but oh so appreciated.  Thank you Jesus!  Can I get an amen?!!

Heavenly Father, thank you for your gifts of love, grace and mercy.  I pray that we rejoice in those and praise You for giving them to us.  May we remember the grace and mercy You have shown us to be a blessing and show kindness to others as we celebrate the day.  In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.  

Happy Running!!!

This one will make you dance-turn it up!!!