Heart ChecksSample

Be Merciful

Today, we are looking at the fifth Beatitude. Here, Jesus talks about something we all so desperately need—mercy. Jesus says in Matthew 5:7, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.”

Jesus is saying, “If you will plant seeds of mercy, you’ll reap a harvest of mercy!” and trust me, you and I need mercy. We need it in our relationship with God, with others, and even in our relationship with ourselves. Jesus wants us filled to overflowing with mercy and sharing it with all those around us who need mercy.

Mercy does something—it’s seeing someone through the lens of Christ’s love and compassion and taking action toward them. It’s not just a thought or feeling. The mercy Jesus speaks of here is active. It’s an action of unexpected love and compassion extended to someone undeserving.

Thankfully God is full of mercy! The Apostle Paul encourages us in Ephesians 2:4-5: But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. Jesus, who is God incarnate, is rich in mercy, and because of His great love for us, even when we have failed and hurt His heart with our sins, shortcomings, and mistakes—He gives us another chance.

Through receiving God’s mercy, we can extend mercy to others. Let’s look at three lessons from Jesus on mercy:

1. Mercy sees the bigger picture.

Mercy gives us eyes to see beyond the current situation in front of us. It allows us to see the pain in other people’s lives—and their God-given value.

2. Mercy does something… now.

Mercy is active. Mercy causes us to step into the fray… into the mess of other people’s lives. It flows out of our mouths and our actions. While judgment declares “You’re wrong,” mercy declares “You’re loved!” Let’s bring life. Let’s bring mercy. Here’s the question—What do you need to do? Where do you need to step in and bring mercy?

3. Mercy brings new life.

Friend, I need mercy. YOU need mercy. Your spouse needs mercy. Perhaps one of your kids needs to hear, “God loves you. Shame off you. Here’s another chance!” Perhaps you need to extend mercy in your marriage or in your workplace. Mercy points people to a new life, a new opportunity to change to grow, to become. Mercy brings a new beginning. Mercy hits reset.

Today’s heart check: Am I walking in mercy—or judgment?

After you reflect, bring everything to God in prayer.