“Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous – with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favour and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!” – Matthew 5:7 (AMPC)
What comes to mind when you think of mercy? Who showed it? Where did it happen? Why did it matter?
Some of my most vivid memories of mercy are moments when God stepped in – undeserved, unexpected, unforgettable. Like that teenage night when I was in the wrong place, yet God provided a way out, I still recall with deep gratitude. Or the seasons of job insecurity – three different companies, three open doors, all marked by His faithfulness.
But mercy isn’t just something we receive from heaven. It’s also something we’re called to extend here on earth. So the question becomes: When have we shown mercy?
Mercy is more than a feeling – it’s a lifestyle shaped by the heart of God. In a world quick to judge and slow to forgive, Jesus calls us to live differently. To be merciful is to reflect the very character of Christ, who extended grace to the undeserving, healing to the broken, and forgiveness to the guilty. Here are two real-life examples to emulate:
- In Marriage: Choose forgiveness over resentment when a spouse fails or speaks in frustration. This takes intentional preparation before, during, and after the moment – a lifestyle!
- In the Workplace: Offer support instead of criticism when a colleague makes a mistake – a leadership style!
This beatitude reminds us that mercy is not weakness; it is strength under control. It takes courage to forgive when wronged, to show compassion when others turn away, and to offer kindness without expecting anything in return. Yet, Jesus promises that those who live this way are blessed – not just in fleeting happiness, but in deep, soul-level joy that comes from walking in step with God’s heart.
And the promise? They shall obtain mercy. When we extend mercy, we position ourselves to receive it – from others and God. It’s a divine cycle of grace: what we give, we receive. With this behaviour, we turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Prayer
Lord, help me to be a mercy bearer and carrier, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Micah 6:8; James 2:13
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 115:12-18; Philippians 2:12-30; Jeremiah 2:31-37; Jeremiah 3; Jeremiah 4:1-9