Psalm 145:8–9 (ESV)
8 The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
9 The LORD is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.

What do we mean when we say that God is gracious? We have previously looked at his mercy, but what is grace? Simply stated, God’s gracious character is reflected in his freely choosing to show favor and blessing to people who do not deserve it. We are all sinners and rebellious towards God, but he still shows his love and kindness and blessing to us. Why? Because he is gracious.

God’s grace is so great that he sent his own Son into the world to save sinners. In order to save us, Jesus had to die as a sacrifice. What amazing grace! When we think of how amazing God’s grace truly is, there is an old hymn that describes it well:

Amazing grace! how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch; like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!

The Lord hath promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.

When we’ve been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun.

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