“Mercy” is a cornerstone characteristic of God, evidenced by its many repetitions in Scripture. The word mercy is mentioned 262 times in the King James Bible. In other translations of the Bible, it’s mentioned additionally as “mercies,” and “merciful.” Jesus Christ is the embodiment of mercy and He commands us: “Love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because God is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:35-36 NIV)
The benefits of God’s mercy are not limited to salvation but include peace, good health, love, joy and prosperity. None of the behaviors Luke speaks of come naturally. In Christ, mercy and truth meet together. Christ-centered people see the world through God’s perspective, and His mercy flows through their lives. When we are merciful to others, mercy brings their hearts, and ours, joy. When we submit to the merciful ways of God, we are choosing to acknowledge His peace. Apart from Christ, mercy is impossible. Thankfully, His mercies are new every morning. Psalms 86:15-16 says, “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Turn to me and have mercy on me; show your strength on behalf of your servant; save me, because I serve you.”
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father I thank you today for giving me mercy.
I receive the benefits of mercy and I give mercy to others as you have shown me mercy in Jesus name.
Amen!