After surrendering, they threw themselves upon the mercy of their enemies. This is not always the best decision but sometimes we have no other choice. In most of these scenarios, mercy usually means a cruel death at the hand of the victors. The Bible also recognizes the harsh reality of this action.
Don’t leave me to the mercy of my enemies, for I have done what is just and right.
Psalms 119:121 (NLT)
The author of this Psalm was pleading to God to rescue him from an expected cruel fate at the hands of his enemies. He did not anticipate their mercy would be compassionate. Is there any situation when we can be assured that mercy will lead to a blessing? What does it mean to do what is just and right in the eyes of God?
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
Hebrews 4:16 (NLT)
What are grace and mercy? There are many definitions and I have found the following to be helpful. Theologian J.I. Packer wrote, “Grace means God moving heaven and earth to save sinners who could not lift a finger to save themselves.” Pastor and Bible teacher J. Vernon McGee, further added, “Grace is the way God saves you. Mercy provided a Savior.” The great Preacher Warren Biersbe wrote. “God in His mercy does not give us what we do deserve, and God in grace gives us what we do not deserve.”
There is only one way to receive mercy and always receive a blessing. We cannot do it by our own efforts. We must humble ourselves and acknowledge that we are helpless and lost sinners. God’s grace took the initiative to save us by His mercy. Only by confessing our sins and accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, will we be able to receive salvation and eternal life. This is God’s grace and mercy working together when we need it most.
Amen!
Love and trust in the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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