How does the concept of grace relate to the Old Testament?

In the Old Testament, grace is prominently displayed in God's covenant with Israel, starting with Abraham, where God's promises did not hinge on the people's faithfulness but on His unwavering commitment. Exodus 19 illustrates this as God reminds Israel of His acts of grace, emphasizing their deliverance from Egypt and His provision as they wandered in the wilderness. This foundational understanding sets the stage for New Testament revelations, where God’s grace culminates in Christ’s sacrifice, affirming that the Old Testament laws were neither designed to save nor to establish merit but rather to reveal the necessity of grace and point to the coming Savior.