Receiving God’s Mercy

Mercy is God not giving us the punishment we deserve. Grace is Him giving us the help we don’t deserve. In Hebrews 4:16, we are invited to come boldly—not timidly—to God’s throne to receive both. It’s not a throne of judgment for His children, but of grace and mercy, extended in love.

Consider the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. After squandering his inheritance and dignity, the son returns home hoping only to be treated as a servant. But what does he find? Mercy. The father runs to him, embraces him, and restores him fully. That’s the heart of our Father toward us.

We often approach God with guilt, fear, or hesitation. But when we understand His mercy, it changes our posture. We come not because we’re perfect—but because He is. Mercy isn't something we earn; it’s something we receive. Every time we fall short, God doesn’t push us away—He invites us closer.