MERCY

Have you ever been in trouble, and needed God to help quickly? If so, you are not alone. What did you do during those times?

King David recorded such an episode. He was being attacked by enemies, who reproached him. Much of the angst against him was unjustified. David was trying to serve God. But people hated him for it. He needed help right away. He recorded these words, spoken to God at that time:

Hear me, O Lord, for Your lovingkindness is good;

Turn to me according to the multitude of Your tender mercies.

And do not hide Your face from Your servant,

For I am in trouble;

Hear me speedily.

(Psalm 69:16-17, NKJV)

Through this trial, David learned an important lesson.

God answers prayers because He is merciful.

David did not ask God to answer his prayer because he was the king. David did not ask God to answer because he was perfect. David asked God to answer because He is merciful.

When we pray, we must appeal to God's mercy. He doesn't owe us anything. But he loves us and is merciful to us. His answers are based on His character, not ours. We must never approach God as if we are entitled to anything. Instead, we must cry out for mercy. And we must accept His answer, even if it is not what we wanted. He acts with mercy and love. Sometimes, the best thing for us is not what we wanted.

Appeal to God's mercy and love. Trust his answer.