Grace and Peace...Bring It On!

"Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
 Ephesians 1:2

Ever noticed that every epistle in the New Testament starts with some variation of these words, "Grace to you and peace from God…"? Most of them end with something like this: "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you." Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon and Hebrews—even James, and 1 and 2 Peter—bestow "grace and peace" on the reader in the first and last chapters. The Book of Revelation—the last book in the Bible—has as its last words: "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen." (Revelation 22:21)

You get the idea that the Lord wants His people filled with grace and peace. Maybe these salutations and benedictions carried more weight than we've considered. Let's take a look at "grace and peace" according to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance.

What is grace? Grace—from the Greek word "charis"—is a multi-faceted word. Some of the well-known meanings of grace include: favor, loving-kindness and goodwill; the merciful kindness by which God, exerting His holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge, affection, and kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtues. When "grace" is bestowed on us, we receive God's favor and divine influence and His inner strength and ability to do all that is set before us.

What is peace? Peace—from the Greek word "eirene"—refers to a tranquil state, quietness and rest. It speaks of harmony between individuals and peace with God. The thing so remarkable about peace is that sometimes it's more noticeable when it's gone! A lack of peace is a life of turmoil, anxiety, unrest, rage and frustration. Receiving God's peace gives us a quiet, tranquil, fearless heart full of confidence, assurance and rest in God. His peace acts like a bodyguard—it guards our minds and hearts in the midst of trouble and fear.

Do you need an extra dose of "grace and peace" today? Let's ask God for it.

"Father, I agree with Your Word. I ask for grace and peace from You, the God and Father, and from my Lord Jesus Christ. In Jesus' Name. Amen."