THE BENEFITS OF MERCY
Bernadette Keene
Today’s Scripture: “God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7, NLT
Theme: Just as God forgives us when we forgive others, His mercy is shown when we show His mercy to others.
MERCY DEFINED
The concept of mercy is a panoramic extension of compassion, kindness, and forgiveness. It is the giving and receiving of empathy; it strengthens relationships, brings happiness, and reduces stress and suffering in relationships. Mercy is a gift that God offers to us freely because He loves us. Some accept it willingly while others struggle with feelings of unworthiness. Nevertheless, God is merciful to all. Receiving mercy is easy, but extending it to others can be challenging, especially when we have been betrayed, hurt, or if we are dealing with difficult people. Today’s Bible verse tells us that “God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Some may read that and think if they do not show mercy that God will withhold His mercy, but that is not true.
THE RIPPLE EFFECT
Mercy is a fundamental attribute of God and is not conditional on a person’s actions. It is given freely, even when we find it hard to extend it to others. The blessing our verse is referring to is a peaceful and sound mind, improved mental health, personal growth, and a deeper relationship with God. The extension of mercy is for our benefit and blesses both the giver and the receiver as the ripple effect extends beyond ourselves into the lives of others. It also has the benefit of showing a harsh world the mercy of God.
Make It Personal: As I have gotten older and my relationship with Jesus has matured, the attributes of God have become more important to me. Having experienced personal tragedies of my own that challenged my faith in ways words cannot describe, I have never been more grateful for the mercy of God. He demonstrates His love for me daily, and as my relationship with Him grows deeper, He teaches me how to extend His love and mercy to others. I am not always good at it; I stumble more than I stride, but He is always there guiding me with His gentle hand of mercy and grace.
Pray: Heavenly Father, I praise You and thank You for Your unmerited mercy. I pray that when I have the opportunity to be angry or unkind, You will help me to remember and reflect to others the same mercy and grace You continually extend to me. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.
Read: Lamentations 3:22-23, Luke 6:36
Weekly Memory Verse: “One day as he saw the crowds gathering, Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down. His disciples gathered around him, 2 and he began to teach them.” Matthew 5:1, ESV