Why We Must Be Merciful

Daily Devotional – Friday, April 26, 2024
But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth.
Psalms 86:15 (NKJV)

The idea of mercy serves as a lighthouse of heavenly love and compassion in a world that is frequently characterized by judgment, condemnation, and harshness. As Christ’s disciples, we are expected to mirror the merciful nature of our gracious Savior by emulating and showing others God’s mercy.

The Lord is Compassionate

Here is God’s description of Himself: “The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin…” (Exodus 34:6-7). Notice how the concept of mercy and forgiveness is repeated.

Scripture is replete with instances of God’s unending mercy toward people. God’s pity knows no limits; it extends to pardoning penitent sinners and providing compassion to the downtrodden and disenfranchised. His mercy is freely given from His unwavering love and is not dependent on our deservingness or righteousness.

Why We Should Be Merciful

We are obligated to show others the same mercy that we have received from God. Jesus forewarned us that God would not pardon us if we did not also pardon others. By being merciful to others, we participate in our Heavenly Father’s redemptive work in the world and reflect His heart.

We must always be appreciative of God’s kindness, especially since it was extended to us through Christ’s death on the cross. In addition, we need to pray for the ability to forgive and show compassion to everyone around us. God is compassionate to us. We should be merciful to others.

Prayer
Give us compassionate and loving hearts so that we might show your mercy to a world in need of your restorative touch.