God's Mercy

I was pondering what an amazing thing was God’s Favor, when my son asked me what the difference was between Mercy and Favor.

I started with the Dictionary Definition:
FAVOR- Overgenerous preferential treatment - a sign of liking - an act of kindness beyond what is due or usual
MERCY- Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm

I thought that the dictionary said it pretty well. Favor is unmerited preferential treatment and Mercy is compassion or forgiveness toward someone who has committed an act against you.

What awesome set of power twins. They work hand-in-hand but they aren’t the same. From the beginning we see God acting in Mercy and Favor when He sent His Son to redeem us. But it doesn’t end there. The Word says that if He would not spare His Son how much more will He give us All Things?

When we speak of God’s Will, His Mercy and His Favor in the same context of “asking, receiving” and the verse I just quoted which includes the words “all things” (Rom 8:32) people withdrawal and act “shy”. People say things like “That’s not what it really means.” or “’All things’ mean spiritual things.” or something similar.

But I encourage you not to hold yourself back by explaining away God’s favor, grace, mercy wrapped up in His blessings. Receive them and run with them.


Favor
2 Corinthians 6:2

Mercy
Mercy Heb 4:16