“God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” (Matthew 5:7, NLT)
Have you ever noticed that if you’re critical of others, they’re critical of you? If you’re kind to others, they’re kind to you? Or if you’re generous to others, they’re generous to you? Whatever you give in life, you’re going to get in return.
The same is true of God’s mercy.
“For the truth’s sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever. Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.” (2 John 2-4, KJV)
But why does God want you to show mercy to others? Why is being merciful so important?
Because God has shown you mercy.
Ephesians 2:4-5 says, “God’s mercy is so abundant, and His love for us is so great, that while we were spiritually dead in our disobedience He brought us to life with Christ. It is by God’s grace that you have been saved” (GNT). God wants you to pass on the mercy that you’ve received from Him.
Because God commands you to be merciful.
Do you want a summary of what life’s all about? Here it is: “The Lord has told you what is good. This is what the Lord requires from you: To do what is right, to love mercy, and to live humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8, GW).
Because you’re going to need more mercy in the future.
You’re going to make a lot of mistakes between now and when you get to heaven, and you’re going to need God’s mercy. But you cannot receive what you are unwilling to give. James 2:13 says, “You must show mercy to others, or God will not show mercy to you when He judges you. But the person who shows mercy can stand without fear at the judgment” (NCV).
Because showing mercy brings happiness.
Matthew 5:7 says, “Blessed are the merciful” (NIV). The word “blessed” also means “happy,” so the more you learn and demonstrate mercy, the happier and more blessed you’re going to be, even in the midst of trials.
Because so many people in the world are living for themselves, showing mercy and grace to others will always stand out. Be known for your mercy as you model for others how good God has been to you, and you will make an eternal difference!
Ponderings:
- What do you think it means to “love mercy”? (Micah 6:8)
- How have you seen God bless you when you’ve shown mercy to someone — even when it was difficult to do?
- Think of a way you could have shown mercy to someone in the last week but didn’t. How do you think it might have changed the outcome of that situation?
Prayer
Holy Father, I thank You for the mercy You show me each day through Your gift of salvation in Jesus. Help me to be merciful to others when my sinful self wants to be something else.
Pray, praise, give thanks, and stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
