Mercy

James is not writing about how to become a Christian, but rather how to act like one. Having all the correct beliefs about God will hardly suffice: even demons believe in God.
Real, life-giving faith should produce motion, and James minces no words in describing the specific spiritual actions expected of Christians. Unlike the apostle Paul, James was no urban man of letters. He was a simple, homespun preacher, perturbed at people who were not living right. That is why when I need a talking to - I read this Biblical book.
Today I realized, I am not very merciful. When people lacked substance and character - I just as soon be rid of them then deal with them.
And yet by that very statement - I am one of them. I am far too quick to write people off then to show them mercy. Hypocritically, I have needed more mercy from God and others for some humongous mistakes I have made.
God tells me: No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8.
I need to love mercy. I need to show and give it away as God gives it to me. God in His mercy forgives my sins. Though I cannot earn forgiveness by forgiving others, when I withhold forgiveness from others after having received it I show that I don't really understand or appreciate God's mercy towards me.
Though I do not often quote Shakespeare, in his play The Merchant of Venice - Portia's speech says a lot, "The quality of mercy is not strain'd, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice blest; It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes: 'Tis mightiest in the mightiest: it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown."
Showing mercy is mightier than actually being a king.
Hosea 6:6 I want you to show love not offer sacrifices.
I want you to know me more than I want burnt offerings.
Dear Lord, may I have mercy and love on others as you have been merciful to me. Amen

Created almost 2 years ago