Love And Mercy
One definition of love is that I cherish and willingly desire to take some action. That action gives me joy and a sense of accomplishment.
Mercy is the action to give others the benefit of the doubt even when I suspect, or know, they’ve done wrong…and forgive them.
Love Mercy
A portion of Micah 6:8 states that God requires His children to “love mercy”.
So that means I have to cherish and willingly desire to give others the benefit of the doubt when I suspect, or know, they’ve done wrong.
I have to unreservedly and joyfully forgive others.
That’s a tough one to wrap my mind around.
And it’s even more difficult to contemplate being able to accomplish it.
— Even when I know that forgiveness sets me free from the pain someone caused.
— And even when I know that God requires me to love mercy.
It’s Up To Me
But it’s my choice: to love and to give mercy.
I don’t have to.
And unfortunately, sometimes I choose not to.
It’s Not Just Up To Me
But more than that, I can assert all of my energy and still not be able to.
At times, I don’t have the capacity to love mercy. Or to show love and mercy.
So I’m grateful I can ask God to help me:
— Decide to love mercy.
— Decide to show love and mercy.
— To actually love mercy.
— To actually show love and mercy.
My prayer for all of us is that we choose to love mercy, and ask for God’s help to do that.
What helps you love mercy?
What helps you love mercy? Share on XJoni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.
May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.
What helps me love mercy? When I am shown mercy by God and others. Then I am able to show mercy, as I remember the kindness. Great post, Joni!
Thanks for reading and sharing, Jane. I appreciate it.
Your message is just what I needed today to help me with an issue I’m dealing with. Thanks for sharing wisdom and encouragement Joni.
I’m glad my post was helpful, Katherine. I’ll keep you in my prayers. I appreciate you reading and sharing.
Great reminder, Joni.
Thank you for reading and commenting, Tim. I appreciate your support and friendship.
Contemplating the mercy God has shown me, and the love He has for all people, helps me love mercy. Even so, I can only extend grace and mercy to others through His strength! Blessings to you, Joni.
I agree, Kim. Thanks so much for sharing!
It’s alignment with “grace,” within the continuum with “justice.”
Justice is getting what you deserve. Mercy is not getting what you deserve. Grace is getting what you don’t deserve.
Thanks for your perspective, Tim. I appreciate your comments.
As always this post is very thoughtful
Thanks for reading and sharing, Judy. Hope my post was helpful. Prayers for you.