Do Unto Others

“So correct me, Lord, but please be gentle. Do not correct me in anger, for I would die.” (NLT)

– Jeremiah 10:24

Jeremiah prayed for the people of his nation. Although not directly involved in the same sins, he included himself in their offenses. And as he interceded for them, Jeremiah confessed to God the need for correction and pleaded for mercy.

Mercy is a contrast to justice. If justice is done, then someone is receiving what is deserved. Not obtaining a judgment that is deserved, however, is mercy. This is what Jeremiah the Prophet cried out to God for. He was a man who implored God to wait longer and to show patience so more people would be spared from eternal judgment.

 What about us? Do we intercede on behalf of others desiring God’s mercy, or do we pray they receive what is deserved? What about those in positions of authority over us that we may disagree with? Do we wish for them to be judged and disciplined, or do we pray their hearts would be turned towards the Lord? Often times we want justice for others but mercy for ourselves. May we remember the mercy shown to us and desire that same gift for others.

“Something is wrong when we say, ‘I’ll forgive you, but I cannot forget what you did.’ That’s like saying, ‘I’ll bury the hatchet, but I’ll leave the handle exposed so that if I need it again I’ll be able to grab it in a hurry.’ That isn’t true forgiveness, nor is it true mercy. And it certainly is not what we want God to do with us. When you forgive, forget. That’s true forgiveness and mercy.” 

– Chuck Smith