“God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7 (NLT)
God extends his mercy to us, even though we don’t deserve it and can’t earn it. All we have to do is ask for it: “O Lord, you are so good and kind, so ready to forgive, so full of mercy for all who ask your aid” (Psalm 86:5 TLB).
How can you be merciful to others as God is merciful to you? Here are seven practical ways to demonstrate mercy in your life:
- Be patient with people’s quirks. What person in your life has irritating quirks? How can you practice patience with them this week?
- Help anyone around you who is hurting. Who around you is obviously hurting? What’s one specific way you can help that person? If you can’t think of anybody, then you’re not paying attention. Look closer!
- Give people a second chance. Who do you need to give a second chance to? How can you put aside your own pain and give someone who’s hurt you a clean slate?
- Do good to those who hurt you. Maybe you’re suffering from an old wound that you have not been able to let go of. You need to forgive and then turn it around for good. Who is that person in your life? How can you reach out to them some way this week?
- Be kind to those who offend you. Who offends you? Maybe it’s someone in the public eye. Maybe it’s a friend who has different views and says some pretty offensive things on social media. How can you be intentional about showing kindness to people who offend you?
- Build bridges of love to the unpopular. When you think of an outcast, who is the first person that comes to mind? Who spends their lunch breaks eating alone or doesn’t seem to have any friends at soccer games? What specific thing can you do to bridge the gap between you and that person?
- Value relationships over rules. Who is an unbeliever you could spend intentional time with over the next few weeks? Then consider inviting that person to church. This is your ministry of mercy.
Take some time to reflect on your answers today—that’s where you can begin showing mercy. God has already shown you mercy, and as you extend it to others, you’ll experience it in new ways.
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