Mercy in Both Directions
Like threading a needle through delicate fabric, mercy requires gentleness and patience, guided by the steady hand of the Spirit.
Devotional Credit: eManna
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Today’s reading from Witness Lee centers on the blessing of being merciful. “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall be shown mercy,” Jesus says in Matthew 5:7. It may sound simple, but this truth reveals a profound divide between how we treat ourselves and how we treat others. We are to deal strictly and honestly with our own weaknesses, never excusing sin or brushing it aside. Yet toward others, the Lord invites us into a life marked by compassion, not condemnation.
Lee’s devotional reminds us that if we never come to terms with the frailty of our own natural selves, we will lack mercy for others. Harshness toward others often reflects blindness to our own failings. Once we see how dependent we are on God's grace, mercy flows more freely from our hearts. Knowing how often we stumble, we stop expecting perfection from others and start extending to them what we so often need ourselves: grace, patience, and understanding.
This mercy is not permissiveness. It is not calling evil good or excusing sin. Instead, it reflects a heart that knows we are all weak vessels, and only the indwelling Spirit of Jesus can empower true righteousness. A merciful heart is not soft on sin, but softened by grace. Mercy triumphs over judgment because it reflects the heart of God, who has shown us compassion instead of wrath.
Ultimately, the mercy we show today will meet us again at the judgment seat of Christ. When we extend mercy to others, we are demonstrating that we understand the kingdom ethic of Jesus. The one who forgives much is the one who knows he has been forgiven much. That posture becomes both our protection and our joy.
Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
My child, I have shown you mercy beyond measure. I have not dealt with you according to your sins, nor repaid you according to your iniquities. I have covered you with compassion, clothed you with righteousness, and invited you to come boldly to My throne. Now, as one who has received mercy, I call you to extend it.
I did not withhold My grace when you failed. I lifted you up. I forgave you. I reminded you of your identity in Jesus and restored your joy. Let that same heart be in you toward your brother or sister. You were once harsh, but I am softening you. You were once self-righteous, but now you see how much you need Me moment by moment.
The kingdom is not built on merit. It is built on mercy. As you walk in Me, let mercy be your instinct. Let it interrupt your judgments. Let it speak first when someone falters. Be strict with your own flesh, but generous in compassion toward others. In doing so, you reveal My character and honor My name.
The measure you use will be measured back to you. Mercy given now will echo into eternity. So abide in Me and let My mercy overflow through you.
Scripture References: Matthew 5:7, James 2:13, Psalm 103:10, Titus 3:5, Hebrews 4:16, Luke 6:36–38, Romans 12:1, Galatians 6:1, Romans 6:6, Galatians 2:20, 1 Peter 3:8–9, Colossians 3:12–13
Real-Life Analogy
Imagine trying to thread a delicate piece of fabric through a sewing machine. If you yank or rush, the thread snaps. If you guide it gently and let the machine do the work, the seam is smooth. The thread, like the human heart, cannot endure roughness. It was made for patience.
People are like that. When we interact with others roughly, out of frustration or pride, their hearts recoil. But when we engage them with gentleness and mercy, allowing the Spirit to guide our words and tone, healing happens. The relationship is preserved. Trust grows.
If someone around you makes a mistake today, pause and trust the Lord to respond through you with mercy. You might say, “Lord, I trust You to express Your patience and kindness through me in this moment.” That posture becomes an act of worship, not just toward God, but a witness to those around you.
Prayer of Confidence
Lord, I thank You that Your mercy has covered every part of my life. You know my weakness, yet You did not cast me away. You drew me in. You made me new. You walk with me even now, never harsh, never impatient, always gentle and strong.
Thank You for the mercy that is mine in You. I do not need to judge others to feel righteous. I do not need to compare or condemn. You have made me whole. So I walk in the mercy You’ve poured into me, and I trust You to express it through me, especially when it's least deserved.