God is gracious. (Exodus 34:6; Psalm 103:8; 1 Peter 5:10)



People often mistake GOD's grace for GOD's mercy. Even though they are intertwined and are very similar, they are not the same. GOD forgiving us of our sins is HIS mercy of which we are so undeserving. GOD providing us a way to salvation through Jesus Christ is HIS grace. In short, HIS forgiveness is HIS mercy and HIS rescuing us is HIS grace.



The more I commit to GOD, the more I realise that all that I do is not a result of my own works but of the grace GOD has given me. When we succeed at something, its hard not to give ourselves a pat on the back. Only in times of failure do we seem to run back to GOD and ask for mercy. I'm finding out more and more that any success or failure is all according to GOD's plan. If I should succeed, I know that its because GOD has predetermined that success and I try to avoid giving myself credit lest I become proud. As Proverbs 18:12 teaches us, "Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor."



GOD's grace is a free gift and is not a result of our works. The only way for us to receive this awesome gift is by accepting Jesus as our savior. John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." GOD does not love us because we are good. GOD loves us because HE is good and this is something we must always consider and cast our pride aside. 1 Peter 5:5-7…"God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." {6} Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. {7} Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.



So, in time when we feel strong and proud, we must remember that it is by GOD's grace that we are being blessed and likewise when we are feeling down and out and lost, we can rely on GOD's grace to lift us up. Isaiah 46:4 "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." Always trust in GOD and everything will be alright in good and bad times.