Mercy
Jude 1:22-23
22Be merciful to those who doubt; 23snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear—hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
Christians have sometimes been accused of shooting their own wounded. In our zeal for God, we can sometimes become inpatient and judgmental with those who struggle with sin or doubt. Instead of rejecting them, Jude says, we should have mercy on them. -- just as Christ had mercy on us when he forgave our many sins. While we must not tolerate or accept sin, we are to love and accept others with kindness and mercy. If you know someone who has fallen away from God, your kindness may be just what is needed to lead them back to God.
Amen, so very true my friend. I love you.
ReplyDeleteHello, thank you so much for stopping by, your blog is so sweet!
ReplyDeleteBlessings, Shirl
Shirls Rose Cottage
Well said, Colleen. Sweet Mercy is needed the most by those who are the least deserving (in our one opinions). In Matthew 18, the Lord gives us directions on how to handle a dispute. If the person does not repent, it says to treat them as a nonbeliever. And how do we treat nonbelievers? With love and mercy. As you well said, we do not tolerate their sin, but we are to love and accept others through His mercy and demonstrating His love.
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed day.