Rich in Mercy
Now the LORD had told Samuel the previous day, “About this time tomorrow I will send you a man from the land of Benjamin. Anoint him to be the leader of my people, Israel. He will rescue them from the Philistines, for I have looked down on my people in mercy and have heard their cry.” —1 Samuel 9:15-16 (NLT)
Our heavenly Father looks upon His people in mercy, and He hears our cries. Mercy is when we don’t get what we deserve. When we repent and confess our sins He is faithful to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (See 1 John 1:9) For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalms 103:11-12 NKJV) I reiterate the words of Samuel as he reassured the people: “Don’t be afraid. You have certainly done wrong, but make sure now that you worship the LORD with all your heart, and don’t turn your back on him. Don’t go back to worshiping worthless idols that cannot help or rescue you—they are totally useless!” (See 1 Samuel 12:20-21 NLT)
Rejoice the soul of Your servant, for to You, O Lord, I lift up my soul. For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You. —Psalms 86:4-5 (NKJV)