Our Scripture reading today is 2 Peter 3:8-9.
Verse 9, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."
The mercy of God is clearly seen in this verse of Scripture. Mercy is not receiving what we deserve. What do sinners deserve? Romans 6:23a, "For the wages of sin is death..." All sinners have a death sentence in hell. We are sinners by nature and by choice. God's mercy says, "I will provide a way out of this death sentence." Psalm 69:16, "Hear me, O LORD; for thy lovingkindness is good: turn unto me according to the multitude of thy tender mercies." Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection are as a result of the tender mercy of our God. Praise God for His mercy!
It should be our goal daily to pass along mercy to those in our circle of influence. Mercy has been extended to us over and over again. We must be willing to extend the same mercy to those who have offended or hurt us. Far too many Christians are living with bitterness in their hearts. They are unwilling to give mercy in the form of forgiveness. This bitterness will end up causing more damage than the original offence.
Luke 6:36, "Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful."