Saturday 5/1/13

James 2:12-13 ESV

So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

As Christians, we are to be judged under the law of liberty. Liberty means to be free, immune and exempted, probably from our sins and the consequences of not keeping the laws of Moses by our faith in the blood of Christ. Instead of showing us judgement, God has shown us mercy in Christ, giving us that liberty, freedom, immunity and exemption.

As God has shown us mercy instead of judgement, we are to show mercy instead of judgement also. If we show no mercy, God's judgement will also be without mercy. Our flesh and the worldly thinking cry in anger for judgement whenever we feel hurt, unfair, or angry without knowing we also hurt, be unfair and do many wrong things. In our limited wisdom and sinful nature, our judgement of each other cause further hurt, unfair, and angry. In the end, the hurt, unfair and anger will never be stopped by judgement.

In God, mercy is much more important and desirable than judgement. And mercy triumphs over judgement, because it can stop the hurt and anger.

Mercy can also help us to forgive unfairness, what is fair anyway? Are we envying others and desire what we don't have? Are all come from God, allocated by God according to His will and our ability? Are we all have the daily bread, water and clothing for our need? It's better to be contended with our lot and what we have. And we must not envy sinners for God will destroy them in His time.

But with mercy comes correction. While showing us mercy, God also wants us to acknowledge our sin, turn from our wrong way and learn to do what is right. He also won't leave us alone in our struggle. As we pray and seek His help, He will work in us and in our circumstances to give us the necessary strength, mentality and skills to do right. It takes time but God is patient.

Romans 8:28 ESV

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

In the same way, we need to show mercy to each other, correct each other and help each other to do what is right. It takes time and we must all be patient, to each other.