Can Showing Mercy to Oneself Be Healthy?

Most people might not think of actually exhibiting mercy to themselves. They might be defensive if they are challenged or accused of being wrong about an issue. Being caught in a mistake provides the opportunity to extend mercy to yourself.by saying, “You’re right; I was wrong. I apologize.”

Mercy extended to oneself includes seeking forgiveness from others who have been hurt by our deliberate acts of carelessness, anger, or jealousy. Granting mercy to oneself involves refusing to torture yourself because God’s loving mercy exonerates those who seek forgiveness and who make amends for their sins.

God’s mercy and forgiveness create in us an attitude of thanksgiving that helps us be willing to grant mercy to ourselves and grant mercy to others as well. What a wonderful way to begin a new day with a clean heart capable of joy and peace! God makes this possible by trusting him to love us to a depth that is sometimes difficult to understand.

   

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In the same way your light must shine before people so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven.

~Matthew 5:16 Good News Bible

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Shackled by Unbridled Shame?

Shame has the capability to hold us captive by creating companion thoughts that, if we confessed to behaviors that were unquestionably wrong, then we would never be acceptable again. Shame communicates that something is wrong with us and that we are unworthy of God’s love and mercy. 

          This state of unbridled shame may come from years of being exposed to criticism and rejection by significant others. False reasoning tells you to stay where you are and remain silent. This is not God’s plan for you. Christ Jesus died to give you freedom from sin and shame, regardless of its source, by forgiving and cleansing you from all unrighteousness.  

          While the voice of shame is strong, the desire for a clear conscience is stronger. God's Spirit compels us to make amends for past failures. Making amends includes acknowledging and confessing behaviors that were hurtful to others as well  as restoring what was damaged or ruined. To do so indicates that transformation is  in process and is under-girded by God’s undeserving love, mercy and forgiveness. 

Fear Is Here! Flee or Face It?

There are two possible responses to fear. The first impulse is fleeing to escape being seriously hurt or, even worse, meeting your demise. The other response is to face fear with determination to resolve whatever is responsible for the conflict. When death seems eminent, getting your house in order becomes a priority.

 

When Jacob knew he had to face Esau, he was fearful this would be his last day to live. In his heart he knew he had to make amends for the sins he had committed against his brother. He also knew that whatever he did to make amends could never compensate for the suffering and pain he had levied against Esau.

Making amends attempts to repair broken relationships by apologizing for careless or intentional behavior and expressing heartfelt regret for having done so. Amends include replacing what was destroyed whenever possible. Sincerity of heart and mind demonstrates faith that God will bless your efforts. Sincerity activates God’s help. Can you do it?