Paul sent a most meaningful greeting in most of his letters in which he said: “Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 1:2). This salutation from Paul’s heart has much more meaning than many realize.
“To learn of Christ means to receive His grace, which is His character.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 271.
With the character of Christ, there would be no complaining because you would be satisfied with what God’s will was for you knowing “… that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
When Paul asked for healing in 2 Corinthians 12:9, God replied, “… My grace is sufficient for thee [My character is sufficient for you]: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. …” Paul then says, “Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Whatever your “thorn in the flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7), God’s grace is sufficient. “The divine grace which He alone can impart, is as living water, purifying, refreshing, and invigorating the soul.” The Desire of Ages, 187.
Grace be to you! But it is not only grace that Paul wants you to attain. He adds, “… and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 1:2). As Peter also states in 2 Peter 1:2, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you …” This word peace is a state of quiet or tranquility, free from agitation or disturbance, being calm. It also means an absence of strife or discord—a state of reconciliation. Paul knew God’s desire to give to all grace and peace.
There was much strife, discord and agitation in Paul’s day but he knew that if they would obtain that grace and peace from God the Father and Jesus Christ His Son, they would have such tranquility and calmness in their hearts that others would be drawn to them.
God is talking to you through Paul and Peter and other writers. As you read their words, hear His voice talking to you. He says, “Grace be to you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.” Ask for His grace! Ask for His peace! These gifts are for you and for me.
How do I multiply these gifts? 2 Peter 1:2 tells us how: “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord … .” Spend quality time in His word and the Spirit of Prophecy. As you grow in knowledge, so will the grace and peace of God swell within you.
Heavenly Father: I did not realize that Your grace is Your character and how much I need it. I understand now why Paul knew that Your grace was truly sufficient and that he was satisfied with his “thorn in the flesh.” I pray for Your grace and Your peace that I may reflect Your character at all times and under all circumstances even amidst all of the thorns, because I now know that Your grace is truly sufficient. Amen.