Ps 86:15 But you, O Lord, are a God of compassion and mercy, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.
Many times, David prayed for God’s compassion and mercy. Everyone needs mercy. It may be a friend’s forgiveness for a misunderstanding or leniency for a capital offence. God is always present to forgive and love us back to him.
Many years ago, when I first asked Jesus to save me and use me to help others, I made many mistakes. My over zealousness for him placed my foot in my mouth more times than not, but slowly I learned to pray and listen before speaking. As I matured, I found patience and understanding for other baby Christians. A woman in our singles group confessed to me that she was living with her boyfriend. Instead of verbally reprimanding her for her sin, I patiently waited for the whole story. By the end it was apparent she was now uncomfortable with the situation. I explained that the Holy Spirit was showing her God’s mercy by allowing her to see the relationship for what it was and what it should be. I prayed God would give her wisdom when she shared her feelings with her boyfriend.
Several weeks later, she showed me her engagement ring and told me the wedding was in two months. Her parents’ divorce had made her afraid to commit to marriage. But after talking with her boyfriend, he popped the question. He was waiting for her to be ready. His love, understanding and patience helped her overcome her fear and cemented her commitment to God and her boyfriend.
Commitment to God helps us commit to others. After 10 years I lost touch with them, but I know the Lord used me to show mercy to a friend.
Jena Kleinpeter 