17 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write.

18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:17-18

Paul ended this letter with a blessing he’s used throughout all of his writings. He also wanted them to know he wasn’t dictating it but writing it by hand. It would be the modern day equivalent of writing a personal letter or note card instead of an email or letter typed.

But the blessing, once again, is important here. As he’s done in other place, so he wishes God’s grace upon the church meeting in Thessalonika.

Traditionally in Greek culture, the writer would give a salutation and farewell similar to this. However, Paul used both peace and grace in his salutation and parting as means of surrounding his text with blessing. It’s subtle but effective. Peace and Grace were what they needed.

Those two blessings are also what we need. In abundance. Every day. There’s so much turmoil and unrest in the world, so much agitation, so many reasons to need it.

Pray these blessings liberally over your friends and family, and watch them grow because of it.