The Lord is like a father to his children,
….tender and compassionate to those who fear him.
For he knows how weak we are;
….he remembers we are only dust. Psalm 103:13-14 NLT
Jude 1:22-23 (<<click here to read the passage)
Mercy. It should be a common trait amongst believers for You, Lord, have surely extended it to each one of us. But quite often we withhold it. We land on the side of judgment instead. Too often we readily condemn and it is easy to leave compassion and kindness out of the equation altogether.
Lord, in Matthew 26:16-20 You gave us the Great Commission. We were told,
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words] v19 AMP
Lord, if we are to tell people about You and what we must do as followers of You, how are we going to accomplish that task by being judgmental?
An old adage comes to mind that is very appropriate, “You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.” Though it is not from the Bible it is sure not anti-biblical. You have given us the wonderful gifts of salvation from our sins and eternal life to boot. Not one of us is perfect. “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” Romans 3:23 NLT But our very nature makes us want to push ourselves forward by shoving others behind and beneath us.
Yes, our world is full of sinners (I am one of many!) Many are in direct opposition to You and Your standards, Lord. Many thumb their noses at You and do as they please. But how can I possibly impact the world for You by setting out bowls of vinegar? Who would be drawn to You by that? …no one.
Lord, May I, and all Your children who desire to align themselves with You, be eager to spread the honey all around. May we be merciful. Amen.
(June 2nd, 2017, Fri, 5:09 am)
June 13th, 2023, Tues, 6:34 pm
