How do we know that grace and peace come from God?

The grace and peace that believers receive are rooted in God's unmerited favor and His sovereign will. Paul begins his letter to the Colossians by expressing gratitude for their faith and love, which are direct effects of experiencing God’s grace (Colossians 1:3-5). This grace is not earned or deserved; rather, it is gifted by God as part of His redemptive plan. The peace that follows this grace is the assurance of being reconciled to God, as seen in the forgiveness through Jesus Christ, enhancing the believer’s capacity to love others genuinely (1 John 4:19).