Experience Mercy, Peace, and Love

The little book of Jude opens with a treo of blessings provided believers by the Lord. “Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.” (Jude 1: 2)

The great God of the universe Who puts seven colors in every ray of light, and causes it to travel at 186,000 miles per second, has no trouble keeping His promises to you. Let your mind marinade in these three.

God, who gives you close attention, provides:

Mercy, which means deep concern. It reveals a real need on behalf of the one receiving it and real resources on behalf of the one giving it.

Mercy describes God’s attitude toward those in distress.

God is rich in mercy. (Ephesians 2:40).

There is a delightful illustration in the Old Testament of mercy.  Mephibosheth was crippled as a result of an injury.  He was only five years old when Jonathan, his father, and Saul, his grandfather, were both killed in a battle on Mount Gilboa.

David took Mephibosheth into his palace, gave him an inheritance, and gave him a place at his table.  That’s mercy.  That’s how God treats us.

Peace is contentment of mind, a state of tranquility in turbulent times.

Shalom, or peace, is not only the absence of conflict, but also the presence of connection and completion. 

Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)

The peace offered by the world is an empty promise and can only bring temporary comfort. God’s peace is a permanent peace offered by the only One who can be trusted to keep his Word and heal our sin.

We have peace when there is no condemnation before God.

Our God offers peace in the midst of chaos. His peace doesn’t change with the circumstances; it is secure in spite of the circumstances.

“For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.” (Isaiah 54:10)

Love of God is freely given.  The love of God, and love for God, results in showing love to one another. Jesus said,“Love the Lord your God, with all of your heart and your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:24) Having received it, go do it.

“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8a)