Topic

Mercy

Mercy

Just what is mercy? The true definition of mercy is found in God. It is kindness, love and compassion toward us. Look in Exodus 33:19, NIV. “And the LORD said, "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.”


How did God show me that mercy? Great question! Check out Titus 3:4-5, NIV. “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.”


Is God still merciful when I need forgiveness? Look in Micah 7:18, NIV. "Who is a God like you, who pardons sins and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy."


Why does God have mercy for me? Find out in Nehemiah 13:22, NIV. “…O my God, show mercy to me according to your great love.”


Does God ask me to show mercy as well? Look in Matthew 5:7, NIV. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” We will receive from God just what we give to others. Luke 6:36, NIV. “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”


How can I become merciful? You’ll find your answer in Galatians 5:22-23, NKJV. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” By asking for the promise of the Holy Spirit in your life, God will give you as a gift, His own character. All these things described as fruit of the spirit are definitions of mercy!


Here is the promise! Luke 11:13, NIV. “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" And then again in Acts 2:38-39, NIV. “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off-for all whom the Lord our God will call."