Devotion:
Read Matthew 5:7.
In English “mercy” is not a verb. We speak of having mercy, or showing mercy, or being merciful, but we don’t speak of mercying someone. Yet in the Greek it is a verb, and I wanted to mention that since it helps us to remember that mercy is more than a feeling. It is something that is noticed in our actions. As Christians, we have been on the receiving end of God’s merciful acts, and so we should be the first to make mercy a characteristic of our lives. God has treated us much, much better than we deserve. That fundamental spiritual truth is the reality of grace. He has seen us in our sin and had mercy on us because of his great love for us. Even though we have repeatedly proved unfaithful, both individually and as a group, God has been gracious and merciful. He has repeatedly offered forgiveness, help, and redemption when we least deserved it. In the Kingdom Family, mercy rules. It is only those who humbly and reverently recognize the mercies of God towards them and His amazing grace, sending His only Son to become the substitute for their sin, who exhibit this fruit of the Spirit.
Personal Worship Option:
Holy Father, I confess that I often want justice when I am violated and mercy when I sin. Thank you for not treating me as I deserve, but instead providing Jesus to be the atoning sacrifice that extends your mercy to me and fulfills your justice on my behalf. Help me reflect your grace and mercy in my dealings with others. In the precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen
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