you are blessed when you show mercy

“Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous--with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!” (Matthew 5:7, Amplified Bible)

I like to read the Amplified version of the Bible. It shows me more exactly what the original thoughts were of the speaker/writer were, according to the language the words were written in. Because of this, I am made aware that the word “blessed” has a different meaning than I originally thought… It speaks of the blessing to be a blessing simply because it is originates in God…not from us and what we want. It also speaks of being happy/satisfied with what God has for me regardless of my outward conditions. Hmmm…really different than what I have also thought….

So, this blessing comes when I show mercy to others…when I give others what I would like them to give me…The dictionary says that mercy is:

“clemency: leniency and compassion shown toward offenders …a disposition to be kind and forgiving”

This is hard for me. Not so much if I am with the offender, and we talk about it and work through it, and continue to live through it…but if I am ignored and left alone…it is hard for me to forgive. This is a particular problem that God has been working with me for several years, now. It is very hard for me, but I know that God has a very special blessing for me every time I give him people and situations that cut me to the bone, believing and trusting him to take it and make something beautiful for his glory.

Lord, help me show mercy… even when it is hard for me. Work in my life…break my heart…mold it in your image…

g