Faithfulness to Grace & Mercy

Before we turn the page to a brand-new study, I want to pause and look back with a grateful heart at where God has led us.

What a wonderful journey these past three months have been!

In April, we explored the HOPE we have in Jesus Christ—the sure and steadfast hope that anchors our souls no matter what storms may come.

In May, we celebrated the JOY that is ours in Christ—a joy that rises above circumstances because it is rooted in Him.

Throughout June, we reflected on the FAITHFULNESS of God, discovering again and again that He keeps every promise, never abandons His children, and remains steadfast through every season of life.

Thank you for taking this journey with me. Your comments, prayers, messages, and encouragement have been such a blessing.

As June comes to a close, I'll be taking the month of July away from writing and posting.

While I'll be stepping away from writing, I won't be stepping away from God's Word. I'll continue reading my Bible each day, but reading and studying are two very different experiences.

Reading gives us the beautiful overview. Studying invites us to slow down, dig deeper, and discover treasures we might otherwise miss. That's exactly what we'll be doing together beginning August 1.

On August 1, we'll begin a study that has changed the way I understand God—and I believe it will deepen your walk with Him as well.

We'll spend the coming weeks exploring two words that every Christian knows—but few fully understand:

**GRACE** and MERCY.

Have you ever wondered...
• What's the difference between grace and mercy?
• Why do we so often confuse the two?
• How can understanding them change the way we see God—and ourselves?
• Why are these two gifts at the very heart of the gospel?

Those are just a few of the questions we'll answer together.

I truly believe that the more we understand God's grace and God's mercy, the more we will stand in awe of His incredible love.

So enjoy your July. Rest. Spend time in God's Word. Watch for His faithfulness in the ordinary moments of everyday life.

Then meet me back here on August 1 as we begin a brand-new journey together.

Until then, let me leave you with one question to ponder...

If someone asked you to explain the difference between grace and mercy in one sentence...could you?

By the end of our study, I believe you will—and I think you'll never look at the gospel quite the same way again.

Until then, may this prayer be true of each of us:

*"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost."* — Romans 15:13