But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved—        –   Ephesians 2:4-5 

“How do you spell relief?” You might remember that question from a long-ago commercial for Rolaids. That might work for an upset stomach or heartburn. But what if you need relief in your spiritual life? You must begin with the first words of today’s verse, “But God…” Pastor and author Steven Cole says, “Those are the greatest words of hope that we could want to hear!” It is God who initiates relief for the believer. All hope springs from Him. It all comes from His great mercy. 

The Preacher’s Outline and Sermon Bible says, “God is full of mercy: feelings of pity, compassion, affection, kindness. … Two things are essential in order to have mercy: seeing a need and being able to meet that need. God sees our need and feels for us. Therefore, He acts. He has mercy upon us.” German theologian David Strauss said that mercy “is God’s exercise of pity and compassion upon the sinner with a forbearing he does not deserve. The whole of our salvation is ascribed to the mercy of God, and he is ‘rich in mercy.’” He is the Father of mercies (2 Corinthians 1:3). 

Look closely at the concept of being rich in mercy. Not only do the mercies of God offer pity and compassion, but the Lord gives it lavishly, in abundance, to such a large amount that it is impossible to measure. Were this mercy a commodity, all the gold, stocks and bonds, 401(k)s, or other instruments of wealth could never begin to buy the richness of God’s mercies toward you. 

This rich mercy of God is provided because of His great love for you. David Strauss adds, “Abundant mercy and great love! Oh, the love of God! Who can fathom it? Who can explain it?” John wrote, “In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him” (1 John 4:9). 

Hymnwriter Stuart Townend wrote, “How deep the Father’s love for us, How vast beyond all measure, That He should give His only Son, to make a wretch His treasure.” Rejoice and give thanks to the Lord as you receive and accept His valuable mercy and great love, and humbly adore Him.