What Does the Bible Say Mercy Is?
“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV).
Mercy is a characteristic of the One True God. Mercy fuels compassion, providing promising glints of light in a darkened world. It’s kindness, forward forgiveness, and empathy. Mercy chooses not to be offended and compassionately sees a hurting heart behind hurtful words. God’s mercy is reflected in the cross of Christ, a direct reflection of His love for us. Mercy is an extension of an expression of love, “an act of kindness, compassion, or favor.” Love is the common denominator between mercy and grace.
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16).
God certainly chose to be merciful to His people; He loved them despite their rebellion and ungratefulness. God’s covenant with them was out of His mercy. He chose to bless them with what they did not deserve. God had mercy upon King David, the Apostle Paul, and the adulterous woman in the Bible.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” (Matthew 5:7) (ESV).
