“Grace and peace be yours in abundance” 

1 Pet. 1:2

The Apostle Paul offers a prolific collection of grace-filled words in his letters. Reading them along with John’s and Peter’s blessings touched my heart and reminded me of the power of words, especially words of kindness among believers. You can hear their hearts reflected in their words:

“The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love to all of you in Christ Jesus” (1 Cor. 16:23).

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit” (Phil. 4:23).

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you (1 Thess. 5:28).

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you” (2 Thess. 3:16).

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all (2 Thess. 3:18).

“The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all (2 Tim. 4:22).

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you” Amen (Rom. 16:24).

“…May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all (2 Cor. 13:13).

“Grace and peace be yours in abundance” (1 Pet. 1:2).

“Peace be with all of you who are in Christ” (1 Pet. 5:14).

Blessings are heart-felt prayers, a desire for God’s favor upon a person or a situation. Since becoming aware of the power of blessings, I’ve started adding blessings to sympathy or birthday cards I send—a blessing for the circuitous grief journey ahead or for God’s care for the next year of their life. Won’t you join me in sharing these very special gifts?

Linda Les