Although mercy and grace are terms used often among Christians, I’m sure many are unclear what the two words actually mean. To help you understand the difference between the two, let’s first begin with mercy.
What is Mercy?
According to dictionary.com the term “mercy” can be defined as having a disposition of compassion or forbearance (to refrain from something).
Paul said: “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief” (1 Timothy 1:12-13; NIV).
From this scripture (including many others), we can gather that mercy is not getting what you do deserve. It is an act of being spared from judgment. When we hear, “thank you Lord for mercy” this is the same as saying, “thank you Lord for not giving me what I deserve, for withholding judgment and punishment from me.”
Example of God’s Mercy
An example of God’s mercy would be a 19 year old teenager who fell short from the glory of God. They gave into peer pressure and decided to go to a club late Friday night where drugs and sex is highly promoted.
The next day, the teenager is convicted by the Holy Spirit and repents. Because of God’s mercy, He forgives and spares them from punishment and judgment.
Mercy Summarized
With any sin or illegal act committed, punishment always follows. However through Christ Jesus, we are given a second chance. We are given mercy; thus, withholding punishment and judgment from us.
Is this an invitation to do whatever we want? Of course not. However, when we mess up and fall, God gives us mercy. Not because we deserve it but because of His compassion towards us.
It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning…” (Lamentations 3:22-23).
What is Grace?
According to dictionary.com “grace” is defined as the manifestation of favor by a superior. It can also be defined as the freely given, unmerited favor and love of God. In very few words, grace is getting what you do not deserve.
Example of God’s Grace
The grace of God is unearned; it’s freely given to you by God although you don’t deserve it. An example of God’s grace is the gift of eternal life.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).
The gift of eternal life is something you do not deserve, however it is freely given to you by God. The scripture states that while we were still sinners, Christ died on the cross for you and I (Romans 5:8). Was this something we deserved? No; but the grace of God saw past our sins and wicked ways.
Grace Summarized
When you hear a person say, “thank you Lord for grace” they are in essence saying, “thank you Lord for giving me what I do not deserve.” Again, this isn’t an invitation to sin and do whatever you want. God knows your heart so don’t take for granted the grace given to you.
Finial Words about Mercy and Grace
I encourage you to think of all the things you do not deserve but received (grace) and all the punishments you do deserved but did not receive (mercy). When you think about these things, begin to thank God for giving you brand new mercy and grace. Without it, you and I would be consumed by our wicked ways on our way to hell.
Receive spiritual words of encouragement and daily devotions for Christian everyday living by RSS feed or via email. Thanks for visiting and God bless you :)
No related posts.
{ 17 comments… read them below or add one }
Thanks this is truly insightful.Doudly so as it was written on my birthday.
[Reply]
To God be all the glory. I am blessed that you found this article insightful. May you be blessed in Jesus name. Oh, and happy belated birthday
[Reply]
Thanks for the good explanation of the difference between grace and mercy. It is only by the grace and mercy of God that we are not consumed… All the glory & praises belongs to Him. God bless you more and more… God bless the Philippines!
[Reply]
This has help me to explain grace and mercy to my children, more clearly. I can’t thank you enough….
[Reply]
Thanks 4 the words of wisdom
[Reply]
Thank you so much for the clear explanation along with the supporting Bible verses. They were very encouraging and the explanations really cleared up the difference. God bless you
[Reply]
Thank you very much and may the GOOD LORD continually enrich you mightly with HIS words and wisdom for benefit mankind in JESUS NAME.
[Reply]
Thank you for a clear explanation of mercy and grace. I so wanted it-STAY BLESSED.
[Reply]
This was a great breakdown on what is grace and mercy. May GOD continue to use you
[Reply]
Thanks so much. Very enlightening. God bless u abundantly and bless us all with more of his wisdom in Jesus name Amen.
[Reply]
I have been always been confused of the two but thanks so much for that. God bless you!
[Reply]
Wow, this was as simple as abc. You are blessed.
[Reply]
Thank you so much for this great explanation and words of wisdom, you really dont know how much impact this has on me, but it has blessed me mightily. Keep on the good work of God and His mercy and grace won’t cease in your life. Thanks a lot.
[Reply]
Am blessed by the word
[Reply]
Very good and inspiring piece . Thanks and God bless
[Reply]
Thank you so much for taking away the confusion, keep up the good work. May the word of God richly dwell in you.
[Reply]
The revelation of the difference between grace and mercy was just illuminated to me this very hour. I knew I had them from God, was grateful for them, but had no true understanding of what they actually were. It is now clear to me what I am grateful for and why my life is to be a living sacrifice acceptable to God. Thank you so much for this breakdown
[Reply]