Looking at attitudes that are befitting of those who follow Christ, I hope you notice that there is a strong sense of humility in each one. Humility is a quality that Jesus exhibited most frequently and at great cost. It was a model that he wants us to follow.
Mercy is a byproduct of being in right relationship with others. The Hebrew word for mercy, (Hessed) that is used here talks about a loyal love that is reserved for one’s closest to you. The challenge for believers is that this is the mercy that is expressed to everyone. When you express mercy to everyone then they should respond in kind to you as well.
If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well.
James 2:8
The problem is our version of mercy today is so conditional. We only give mercy if we think the other person is worthy of our mercy. We hold grudges and condemn. It is rare to find someone who give mercy freely.
When we do not give mercy freely, we are holding on to a poison that can be toxic to our soul. The person whom we are withholding mercy or forgiveness from probably doesn’t even realize the stress we are under. We must be careful to guard against that and let go of the wrong and forgive and move on.
“Holding a grudge doesn’t make you strong; it makes you bitter. Forgiving doesn’t make you weak; it sets you free. “ Dave Willis
When we consider and apply this to our thoughts on mercy we can begin to feel a sense of how special giving and receiving genuine mercy can be to both parties.
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Whom do you need to give mercy?
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Have you been holding on to a grudge with a friend or family member?
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How can you begin to show them mercy or faithful love?
You will feel a peace that can come from only God when you give this up and trust in him.
