"... for they shall obtain mercy." Matthew 5:7
The
fifth promise in this series introduces a new step in the progression of the
beatitudes. Having examined our need and looked at the solution, we can now
look forward to the result:
His merciful, loving life in us. This is His gift to us -- the
fruit of our faith in His death and resurrection on our behalf. May the Holy
Spirit search our hearts and see if anything is hindering the merciful life of
Jesus Christ from freely flowing in and through us to others.
While
the action of showing mercy is the visible evidence of our union with
Him, our focus must be Him, not how we appear to others.
Anyone can show mercy when conditions and feelings are right; but only the
“poor in spirit” -- who share His death and resurrection life and
look to Jesus as the source of everything good -- can bring His infinite mercy
and life to others.
As
we seek to bring His mercy into a hurting world, we need to remember that true
mercy never contradicts God’s truth and justice. The most merciful act of a
surgeon facing a patient with a malignant tumor is usually to tell the truth
and operate, not to give false comfort by denying the problem. Yet, it's often
far easier to give temporary comfort than to speak His truth in love. The
latter may sting at first, but it's the only way to permanent healing.
My
Lord, only by your merciful life in me can I bring your loving compassion to
those who the hurting and broken . Only by your vision can I see every
person as your precious creation. Fill me with yourself, precious King, that
I may bring your gentle mercy to others. Thank you.
FIRST
DAY: Read Matthew 5:7.
1.
Define mercy.
2.
How would you describe someone who is merciful? (Begin you answer now,
but be ready to add to it as you study the rest of this lesson. Hebrews 4:15
may add insight.)
3.
What does God promise the merciful?
Does
this promise encourage you? Why, or why not? (You may want to speak your
response to Him in the form of a prayer.)
SECOND
DAY:
There are many facets to God’s mercy, and Jesus is our model for each.
As He was merciful, we also are called to be merciful.
1.
From the following passages, identify the specific aspect of mercy
shown in each of Jesus' encounters. Then show how He might demonstrate His
mercy through you in your everyday encounters.
|
HIS
EXAMPLE |
HIS WORK THROUGH YOU |
|
Mark
6:31-34 |
2
Tim. 4:2, 5
|
|
Mark
8:1-9
|
Matt.
25:35 |
|
Mark
10:46-52 |
James
5:16 |
|
Luke
19:1-10 |
Gal.
6:1-2 |
|
Luke
23:34 |
Luke
6:2736 |
2.
What special message did God speak to you through these passages? Tell
Him your response.
THIRD
DAY: Read James 2:1-23.
Mercifully caring for one another is essential to the fulfillment of
God’s purpose for the Church. Since we share His life, each individual is
equal, of infinite worth, and called to live in harmony with all other members
of His family.
1.
What is God showing you about mercy in vs. 1-13?
2.
According to vs. 14-23, what is the relationship between faith and
“works” of love? (Remember, you are saved by faith; salvation is a
gift, not the reward of works. (Eph. 2:8-9) Yet, your action tells something
about your faith and your willingness to be identified with the desires and
purpose of God.)
3.
Explain the difference between faith and intellectual belief. (v. 19)
FOURTH
DAY: Read Matt.
16:21-23. Although we tend to err more on the side of showing too
little mercy than showing distorted “mercy”, we need this warning.
1.
What might have been the motive behind Peter’s words in v. 22. (Can
you identify with this statement? Have you either received or given similar
“comfort”?)
2.
Why is Peter's response the opposite of mercy? (Notice Jesus’
response in v. 23. See also 1 Corinthians 3:19)
FIFTH
DAY: Read Luke 16:19-31.
The completion of God’s perfect mercy is never seen in this life. Many never
find the relief they seek from their suffering in this world. Yet, we can
count on His eternal justice to make up for the lack of mercy experienced by
any of His people here on earth.
1.
Briefly describe the earthly existence of Lazarus.
2.
Where do you see God’s eternal mercy and justice? (Keep in mind that
the rich man was not punished for his wealth but for his lack of compassion.)
3.
How does this encourage you as you look at the injustice and
persecution experienced by so many people in this world?
SIXTH
DAY: Read Psalm 103.
1.
List all the ways God has shown you mercy, and give Him thanks.
