“Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous…) are the merciful… ”
Matthew 5:7 (AMPC)
There are days when the weight of leadership feels especially heavy – when decisions about budgets, staffing, training, and strategy press in from all sides. On such days, it’s easy to rush into the demands of the day without pausing to be still before God. But even in our hurriedness, God is faithful to send reminders of His presence – sometimes through a verse, a friend, or a WhatsApp message, arriving just when we need it most.
I am on Pastor Bhojedat’s daily mailing list, and he recently shared this verse from Matthew 5:7 as one such reminder. It speaks not only of the blessing that comes with showing mercy, but also of the inner joy and spiritual prosperity that is ours regardless of our outward conditions. That’s a powerful truth when you’re navigating seasons of reduction, uncertainty, or even envy from others.
When God promotes you, it often comes with visibility – visibility can attract both admiration and envy. But the call remains: be merciful. Extend grace. Show compassion. Lead with a heart that reflects the mercy you’ve received from God.
I recall a colleague, envious of my arrival at a company, and her attempt to get me fired. Her plan was exposed because I was aiding the junior staff to resolve a discrepancy in inventory, and got wind of my colleague’s plan. In another case, my overtures at mentoring were taken as controlling because the colleague openly indicated their interest in my senior role. I repaid with equal measures of kindness and silence. They came back openly seeking my forgiveness.
So, if you woke up feeling rushed or burdened, take heart – God is already ahead of you. His mercy is new this morning, and you are not alone in your leadership decisions or challenges. Have faith since mercy begets mercy. You are blessed, and you are being shaped for purpose.
Read: Joel 2:25; Hebrews 4:16
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 84:1-7; Romans 1:1-17; 2 Kings 23; 2 Kings 24:1-7