BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL

BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL

 Main Text: Matthew5:7- Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy

Matthew 7:12- Therefore all things whatsoever you would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

Showing mercy is an act of love and is approved by our Lord Jesus Christ in his parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-31). In his sermon on the mount, he also endorsed it. Joseph however exhibited one of the most beautiful illustrations of mercy by the way he handled his brothers who sold him into slavery and suffering, when they met him face to face. When they expected retaliation from him he told them “Don’t be afraid, I will provide for you and your children” (Gen 50:21).

Showing mercy is a way to express our gratitude to God for his salvation. As we reach out to others, we show our desire to obey Jesus’ command and new law to love God above all, and our neighbours as ourselves. To many people the show of mercy is a sign of weakness. In the old world also, justice, courage and discipline were admired more, while mercy was regarded as a disease of the soul. However William Shakespeare in his “merchant of Venice” says that mercy is an attribute of God himself, which blesses him that gives it and him that receives it. We should not however forget that God also is a recipient of our acts of mercy. He receives honour and praise, for He delights in our adoring recognition of His goodness and mercy and is saddened when we serve our selfish interest (Prov 11:20, Heb 13:15-16).

The blessings of Christ like mercy flows not only from the shower to the receiver and back again, but also to the heart of God. Acts of mercy are therefore acts of praise and worship to God. Let us have and show mercy because it is an attribute to God Himself.

BE MERCIFUL AND GOD WILL SHOW YOU MERCY

Prayer Point:Lord help me to understand that mercy triumphs over judgment. Give me grace to offer mercy always in Jesus Name.

BY BISHOP NGOZI DURUEKE (HE REIGNS CHAPEL INTERNATIONAL) To send your testimony, write us: mylivingwaterdevotional@gmail.com.