Two important theological words often get used interchangeably—grace and mercy. But they are different, as evidenced by their use in the same sentences in the New Testament (1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2; Titus 1:4). Grace is receiving something good that we do not deserve, while mercy is being spared something bad that we do deserve.

When Jacob prepared his sons to return to Egypt to get food for their family, he hoped that “the man”—meaning Joseph—would grant them mercy (Genesis 43:14). That is, that they would be spared the wrath of the Egyptian official for apparently stealing his silver in their previous trip to Egypt. For more than one reason, Joseph’s brothers deserved judgment. But when they returned to Egypt, instead of judgment they were shown mercy. Joseph prepared a banquet for them to celebrate their return. They were spared judgment (mercy) but were shown an undeserved welcome (grace).

Thank God for the grace and mercy shown to you and look for opportunities to show them to others.

Every time you draw your breath you suck in mercy.
Thomas Watson