Tuesday, July 19, 2011
A little more about mercy, and judgement:
James 2:12 So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty.
James 2:13 For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
These verses have to do with both mercy, and with judgement. We are encouraged to so do and speak as those who will be judged by the law of liberty.
What does this mean? Well, it's clear that overall it means, that while we are here on the earth, that both our actions and words will one day be judged by what is called the law of liberty.
James is saying that one day, we will be judged for the things we have said, and the things we have done. So, we ought to live with that judgement in mind. Or to be personally accountable with regards to our words and actions.
Jesus spoke about this accountability also. Matthew 7:2 “For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.
The other very interesting thing that is said here, is that we don't have to live in fear of the judgment to come if we are living now in a merciful way towards others. On the other hand, there is a warning. That, the person who lives now without mercy towards others, will not be shown any mercy in the future judgment.
But, a person can smile in the face of judgment to come, if now they are living in, and walking in, and showing mercy towards others. It's very interesting, that we never ask God to give us justice for ourselves, but we ask for mercy. But, we may think He should give others justice. Interesting.
At any rate, God is so merciful. He has new mercies every morning. His mercies are eternal. He bestows His mercies on us. Mercy is something we can pray for daily. It's something we need daily.
Oh Merciful God. Have mercy upon us now, and may we walk in mercy now towards people we know, and come in contact with day by day. You have shown us mercy, You have not given us justice, You gave that to Your Son, but to us You have been merciful. Thank You Father.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Application/Promises
1. It's by His mercies we are saved.
2. God's appeal to us now, is based on His mercies ( Rom 12: 1 )
3. Why not be merciful towards others?
4. Does God ever run out of mercy?
5. Would He give You mercy today?
6. Shall we not rather be merciful now?
7. I want mercy later from God also.
8. Blessed be the Lord of mercy.
