14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4)
These two blessings are so interrelated, we often see them together. Yet they are distinct. Grace is God giving us what we need that we cannot do ourselves: We do not have the righteousness to save ourselves; we do not have the gifts we need to carry out His will in our lives; we need His amazing Grace in Christ. But He also offers, out of his love and compassion, mercy - his reaching down and providing what we need in our misery. When we are hurting, struggling, tempted, we can cry out as so many have "Lord, Have mercy!" and He will hear us. He will give us forgiveness, strength, hope, and healing. Mercy is something God shows to believers and unbelievers alike, but especially to His own. The first thing we need to do is admit how much we need His mercy and His grace.
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