#12: MERCY AND COMPASSION
(from the writings of Paul)
Note: What if all of us Christians grew significantly in mercy and compassion this year? By the end of the year, the world would be a better place in which to live. Let’s take a few minutes and meditate on some things that God’s Word says about mercy and compassion:
A righteous soul realizes he is an object of God’s mercy,
therefore he has courage.
(II Corinthians 4:1)
The Lord is rich in mercy to those who call on Him,
and whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
(Romans 10:12-13, Ephesians 2:4)
The Lord is full of mercy, tolerance and patience,
for He shows goodness and great kindness
as He seeks to bring people to repentance.
(Romans 2:4)
The merciful refuse to be offended any more,
for they realize they are forgiven of their offenses
through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.
(Romans 4:25)
A transgressor speaks evil of his brother and judges him.
The Lord asks him, “Who are you to judge
another man's servant?”
(Romans 14:4, 13, James 4:11-12)
Be meek, peaceful, and gentle towards all;
for a merciful Christian doesn't speak evil of anyone,
not even of the foolish, the disobedient, or the deceived.
For he remembers he was once that way himself.
(Titus 3:2-3)
Do you have a ministry of showing mercy?
Do works of mercy and compassion with cheerfulness.
(Romans 12:8)
When he has opportunity, a compassionate Christian
does good to others and shares what he has
with those in need, especially with other believers.
(Romans 12:13, Galatians 6:10, Proverbs 3:27)
God is the God of all peoples;
and in mercy He calls all to obedience and faith in Jesus Christ.
(Romans 3:29-30, 11:32, Revelation 22:17)
A merciful Christian imitates God,
who is rich in mercy, forbearance, goodness, and long-suffering.
(Romans 2:4, Ephesians 2:4)
To be merciful and tolerant is better
than being touchy and resentful.
Therefore pay no attention to wrongs you have suffered
from others, but forgive and be patient and kind.
(I Corinthians 13:4-5)
He who returns evil for evil is overcome by evil,
but one who walks in God’s love and mercy overcomes evil by doing good.
(Romans 12:21, I Thessalonians 5:15)
Note: this devotional is from Proverbs of Faith, Hope, and Love, Volume 1, Day 59, pages 134-135.