May 28, 2012 (Proverbs 7-9; Romans 9)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “So it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it.” Romans 9:16 NLT
Observation: God shows mercy and compassion to anyone He chooses. The level of mercy or compassion God gives is not based or measured on an individual’s merit. God makes the choice and His choice is just. He chooses to open the heart and mind of some, while His will is to close the mind and harden the heart of others. God is not bound in any capacity. He is free to use His creation in anyway He pleases. His mercy cannot be purchased and to receive it is not a matter of our will, but His. He knows all about us, every thought, every action, every need, every desire, every intention that is within our heart, and yet He still chooses to give of His mercy.
Application: I once thought if I could just be good enough or keep God’s law well enough, then surely God would show mercy to me. Surely I could earn God’s favor if I strived to keep His commandments and was successful. Surely He would smile down on me and reward me for my efforts of holiness. But the harder I tried, the more discouraged I became. I worked so hard at doing everything right, only to become discouraged when I didn’t receive the mercy and favor I felt I had earned from the Lord. Then God taught me a lesson through a close friend. This friend of mine was covered in God’s mercy and very well favored of the Lord. Yet this person struggled with an addictive hidden sin. This person is fighting hard to overcome this sin through the power of God’s Holy Spirit, and I pray they will be successful. However, in spite of this persons struggle with sin, they are still covered in God’s mercy and His favor is on all they do. Truly, it is God who decides to show mercy, and His decisions are just.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank You for this day. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Thank You for the mercy and favor You have chosen to give to me. I know I don’t deserve it and I certainly could never earn it, yet in Your compassion, You have chosen to give it to me anyway. Thank You! Help me be content with the favor and mercy You give and trust completely in Your grace, for I know it is sufficient, in Jesus name, Amen!