We hear a lot of talk about "God's goodness or mercy," but do we really comprehend what this means? We shall address this question in a moment. But for now, let's talk a little about mercy in our own interractions with others. Most likely, you've probably encountered displays of mercy during the course of your day without realizing it.
Do you remember when you let that young, exasperated mom and her restless children cut in front of you at the check-out line? How about when you gave that older lady your seat on the crowded bus, as there were no others available? Perhaps your waitress brought you wheat rolls instead of sourdough like you ordered, but you let it go? As you can see, acts of mercy, whether carried out by us, or someone else, are quite common.
When you or I fulfill an act of mercy; we just do it without feeling the need to be compensated for it. One could say that by displays of mercy we show our human compassion towards one another. And isn't that the whole point, after all? Acts of mercy don't have to be huge, just sincere and without compensation.
Now, what about "God's goodness or mercy?" In an easy-to-digest form, (God's) mercy is the result and effect of God's goodness (Psalm 33:5). What this is saying is that God is essentially good in himself and relatively good to us. This relative goodness is literally his mercy, which is an innate inclination in God to comfort and assist those in misery or distress.
Suprisingly, there are many who feel that one should somehow be repayed or reimbursed, for acts of mercy. This is not the case with God. His mercy is free! Furthermore, not only is His mercy free, but it is infinite (Psalm 86:6; Ephesians 2:2; Psalm 51:1), and eternal (Psalm 103:3, 37)!
But let's not kid ourselves here. Because we are sinful and undeserving, God doesn't have to extend his mercy or his love to us, yet he does (Hosea 14:4). This is a very important point to keep close to your heart.
In closing, when it comes right down to it, all of us should imitate God by exhibiting mercy whenever we can. As He is our Father of mercy, we as his children should follow his example; that is, being merciful in giving and forgiving as He is.
Scripture: Hebrews 4:16; James 2:13; Deuteronomy 4:31; Isaiah 64:4; Luke 6:36
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your mercy; and even though I don't deserve it; You generously offer it to me with no questions asked! Amen
Have a blessed day!
Susan
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