Compassionate and Merciful

 Let's all think about the nicest person we know. What qualities does he or she have that make us say that about them? How do they act that shows their kindness? As we consider who that person might be, let me tell you the Person who wins the prize. It is our Lord Jesus. He is far beyond any mere human in His kindness.

The psalmist described the Lord well. (Psalm 103:8) The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. Now, that is a word picture that gives us a clear view of our Lord Jesus, and it shows us what we should become in the power of the Holy Spirit.

We are to have compassion for others, so that we "feel with" them in whatever they are experiencing. We feel their pain, their sorrow, or their joy. That compassion shows us how act toward them in their situation of life. Also, we are to be merciful, like Jesus. He never punishes us as much as we deserve. He cuts us some slack, but He will eventually discipline us, if we don't listen. That is how we should be with others.

We should be slow to get angry. Just like James told us in his letter, we should listen first and ask God to keep us from getting angry quickly. He will do that, when we ask. Finally, we should seek to be filled with God's unfailing love, so we can share it with anyone around us at any time. If we do these things, people will take note that we are like Jesus.

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Psalms 104-106.