How can practicing mercy and compassion strengthen our relationship with God? A clear call from Zechariah 7:9 “This is what the LORD of Hosts says: ‘Administer true justice. Show loving devotion and compassion to one another.’” (Zechariah 7:9) • The command is direct, not optional. • “True justice” and “compassion” flow from the same divine source. • Accepting the verse as literal and authoritative means embracing mercy as a non-negotiable part of daily discipleship. Why mercy and compassion build intimacy with God • They reflect His character. “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion” (Psalm 145:8). Imitating Him draws us nearer. • They keep the heart soft toward His voice. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). A tender heart hears God more readily. • They guard against hypocrisy. “For judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:13). Extending mercy places us under the triumph of mercy ourselves. • They fulfill His stated desire. “I desire mercy, not sacrifice” (Hosea 6:6). Meeting God where He most delights naturally deepens fellowship. • They position us to receive blessing. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Matthew 5:7). God deals with us as we deal with others. Practicing mercy in everyday life • Choose generosity over criticism when confronted with weakness. • Speak words that heal rather than reopen wounds (Proverbs 12:18). • Offer practical help: meals, time, or resources to those in need (Luke 10:37). • Forgive quickly and completely, remembering the immeasurable debt Christ canceled (Colossians 3:13). • Advocate for the vulnerable—widows, orphans, strangers—just as Zechariah later reiterates (7:10). • Incorporate regular self-examination, asking the Spirit to expose hard spots before they calcify (Psalm 139:23-24). Promises that accompany merciful living • Assurance of God’s own mercy—Psalm 18:25. • Increased joy—Proverbs 11:17: “A kind man benefits himself.” • A powerful witness—John 13:35: “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” • Ongoing access to God’s presence—Micah 6:8 links loving mercy with walking humbly with God. Closing thoughts Living out the literal words of Zechariah 7:9 turns mercy and compassion into daily habits. Each merciful act aligns the believer’s heart with the Lord’s, opens fresh channels of fellowship, and invites divine favor. In short, practicing mercy does more than help others—it steadily strengthens the bond with the God who “is rich in mercy” (Ephesians 2:4). |
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