Today's Sabbath love bomb:
Importance of Mercy: One of the fundamental qualities that Christians need to develop to become like God and reign with Jesus Christ is mercy. Showing mercy involves patience, understanding, compassion, and unmerited pardon. The Scriptures reveal that God is full of mercy and compassion (Exodus 34:6–7) and that He requires us to develop these same qualities (Micah 6:8). Solomon states that those who show mercy, show honor to God (Proverbs 14:31). Jesus taught that the merciful will obtain mercy (Matthew 5:7) and that God values mercy over sacrifice (Matthew 9:13; Hosea 6:6). Jesus also taught that mercy is an important key for good human relationships, and that individuals who have received mercy, but do not show mercy to others, will face serious consequences (Matthew 18:21–35). In human relationships, we are sometimes quick to judge someone guilty by the law, yet, the Apostle James comments that “mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:13). As we strive to develop the mind of God, we must also come to understand the importance of showing mercy to everyone we deal with. In this way, we will be preparing to rule with Jesus Christ in His coming kingdom. Think about how you can show mercy to someone else today.
Have a profitable Sabbath,
Douglas S. Winnail
Imagine that, a COG talking about mercy. Who would have ever guessed, considering the actions of so many of the leaders? Who would have ever guessed that the church is a leader in "patience, understanding, and compassion"? Notice there is no mention of where that mercy comes from and the act involved in it or the person. There is a token mention of his name and an admission that the church is quick to judge by the law. The law always trumps.
