What Must We Overcome to Have a Heart of Mercy?

The most sought-after attribute of God is his mercy, for embedded in mercy are kindness and forgiveness – the essentials for restoration and healing, both spiritually and emotionally. Matthew 18 tells of a man whose debts were beyond paying, yet in an act of mercy his debts were totally forgiven.

You’d assume this man would show mercy to those whose debts to him were outstanding. Instead of mercy, anger and vengeance dominated his feelings and behavior. If we fail to show mercy as an act of gratitude for what has been given to us, the consequences could be astounding.

God does not look favorably on those who fail to show mercy when they have been the recipients of his mercy and forgiveness. 

Remember this truth to live by: “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Never pass up an opportunity to show mercy, for who isn’t in need of God’s mercy? “Give and it shall be given to you.”          

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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 English Standard Version

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Surviving and Thriving

Is it possible to do constructive, good things in the worst possible conditions? Victor Frankl, a Jewish Vienna psychiatrist, was arrested by the Nazi SS during World War II and sent to a concentration camp. He survived unimaginable suffering by finding meaning and purpose for his life each day doing something good for others.

Joseph possessed such an optimistic attitude as a slave. While in prison, God gave him an opportunity to interpret the dreams of a fellow inmate who had served Pharaoh, King of Egypt. He told the former servant he would be restored to his position in Pharaoh's court. Joseph helped his fellow inmate out of kindness with no expectation of being rewarded.

Listen to Luke 6:38. "Give and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will others give to you.” Victor Frankl survived the concentration camp by following Jesus’ command, as had Joseph who would later serve the Pharaoh, King of Egypt. Imagine that!  

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We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us — they help us learn to be patient. And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady.

~Romans 5:3-4 The Living Bible

Selfish Ambition vs. Sacrificial Giving

SELFISHNESS can be an automatic, protective mindset and behavior when danger is apparent. Most often, however, it’s motivated by greed designed to satisfy deeper needs. Jacob wanted his brother’s birthright.  His attitude was, “I want all that's mine and what belongs to you.” He wanted his brother’s position and prestige.

What drives a person to develop a selfish disposition? Reckless ambition characterized Jacob’s life even though he had everything he needed. So instead of being greedy for more wealth, he wanted the acknowledgement that ownership of Esau’s birthright would give him. He would not live his life in obscurity by being in second place.

Jacob did not love his brother. Selfish ambition blindsided moral responsibility. He was thinking only of himself. Selfishness driven by greed grabs whatever is wanted. Jesus said, “Give and it shall be given to you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together will others give to you.” This is a basic life principle to live by. 

Giving the Best Gift

Jacob and Esau, although twin brothers, were not emotionally close nor were they good friends. Jacob was a quiet, observing person who stayed close to the tent. Esau was a skilled hunter, robust by nature, who took from each day what was available. Jacob planned, was ready and eager to use his wits to reach his objective.

Genesis 25:34 notes how Jacob gave Esau some bread and lentil stew, but only after Esau agreed to trade his birthright for the stew. Why not give Esau the food with no strings attached? What kind of person takes advantage of his brother? For Jacob it was a deal too good to pass up, and besides, a good opportunity doesn’t come along every day.

Jacob didn’t love his brother enough to prevent this deplorable, manipulative act from taking place. He could have given Esau the food. Giving is an act of love and trust that strengthens the bond between the giver and the recipient. When you freely give, your competence to love others as God loves you is enhanced. 

Salt, Light, and Second-Milers - Part 2

While waiting to park at a grocery store, a man walked in front of my car to remove a shopping cart that occupied the space. Later when I saw him in the store and acknowledged his kindness, he said, "The way I see  it, what goes around, comes around." That simple act of kindness made a big difference in my day.

His attitude and action demonstrated a character quality Jesus referred to as "salt of the earth and light of the world." Think of salt and light as kindness and spontaneous generosity which reveal other-centeredness and flexibility that point them to Christ Jesus. Helping others by being gracious will sustain you when troubles or hardships come to your house.

This concept is hard to grasp. We've learned to do only what's required, not to be a second-miler, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 5:41. He also encouraged each person to "give and it shall be given to you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will others give to you."  God loves a cheerful giver, so be alert for opportunities to do so.

Listening to Your Inner Voice - Part 1

Every modern civilization to some extent sanctions self-indulgence. In our society self-indulgence is endorsed in every way imaginable. But is it wrong to indulge yourself since most people participate? Because of long term negative consequences, I would suggest it is wrong.

I read about a man who early in his career decided to give away half of his earnings to church groups and organizations whose mission was to improve the lives of less fortunate people. What do you think would happen if you chose to follow his example? Is it possible even to give serious consideration to this idea?

Do you believe the words of Jesus from Luke 6:38? "Give to others and God will give to you a generous helping, poured into your hands - all you can hold." Self-indulgence and self-absorption eat away at your conscience and integrity. Generosity rebuilds the conscience and strengthens integrity when it's expressed with thanksgiving and love. Such a choice is fostered by the love of Christ Jesus for us.