Remember in the first 3 parts we saw that God intended for Equality, but does not see it how we do – it’s not based on us, but on Him and the Extravagant Grace He pours forth over us all. We looked at first leg of the Trinity – LOVE within Free will.
Today the second leg – Mercy, the heartbeat of Father God, of Sovereign God, of El Shaddai, of El Roi (the God who sees). He knew that if He did not show us Mercy we would have no hope, future, or life. So what is mercy:
Mercy is defined as – compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender, or to one subject to one’s power”; and also “a blessing that is an act of divine favour or compassion. Wow, doesn’t that just sum up the Father’s Heart?
What about Hosea the prophet (man of God) who Holy Spirit instructed to go marry a prostitute and be prepared to keep choosing to love her, go after and rescue her, and bring her back. Always showing her the heart attitude of unconditional love, through mercy. Wow! Would we do that if Holy Spirit asked us? Hmm
Hosea 6:6 “I desire mercy, not sacrifice“ The Father saying, I desire to show mercy to you, I don’t desire or demand a sacrifice of atonement from you. I don’t desire to extract sacrifices from you, for your sins and the promises that you’ll do better next time and things you might do to make up for your weakness. No I’m God and I sweep it all away with this truth & declaration “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” This is My deepest heart towards all. What a Father, Husband, Saviour, Friend! This verse is repeated in Matthew 9:13 and 12:7 have a read.
In Exodus 21:12-13, we see a fresh the character of God, (Do read the whole chapter 21)
“Anyone who assaults and kills another person must be put to death. But if it was simply an accident permitted by God, I will appoint a place of refuge where the slayer can run for safety.”
Umm how you going with that? Is your mind going God do you know what that person has done? God what are You seeing that we don’t see, or know? Does that sound like equality or fair to you?
Exodus 22:25-27 , we see God’s way of Mercy (Again read the whole chapter)
“If you lend money to any people who are in need, do not charge interest as a money lender would. If you take your neighbours cloak as security for a loan, you must return it before sunset. This coat maybe the only blanket your neighbour has. How can a person sleep without it? If you do not return it, and your neighbour cries out to Me for help, then I will hear, for I am merciful”
How you going with this passage? With giving money, time, or practically for those in need? Maybe, ask Holy Spirit for revelation of how your heart attitude is to this. God only reveals things to help us become more Free and like Jesus as children of God.
God, not only expects you to give it back but to go the step further and show compassion to this one, and release them from the weight of debt. Wow, you get to be Jesus in the moment and choose to show you desire relationship with them above all. Ok pause time..
Maybe the Holy Spirit is bringing to mind someone or situation and wanting you to extend Mercy, compassion, or blessing there. If so are you willing? I’ll leave it there for you to be with Him..
Challenge time:
1. Look up all verses that speak Mercy. Once you’ve read them ask the Holy Spirit to breathe and high light the top 3 which are relevant for you in this season.
2. Personalise them as a declaration to Father God that you have received mercy and want to show it to others.
3. Pray for opportunities to do just that, lay down all expectations, and for help to trust His timing and way, and then do it!
.4. Worship Him and have a praise party for He is Worthy so Worthy.
Father, thank You for all you’ve revealed to us, that Mercy is what you desire and your heart for us that we give to others. Holy Spirit would You help us apply this verse today so we can live fully alive in You and like You delight in showing mercy to others. In Jesus name. Amen… Micah 7:18 NIV
“Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy”.
Craig and Winnie Patten
Itinerate Pastors/Apostolic Leaders
Encounter Ministries
