Righteousness, Mercy and Loving Kindness

Proverbs 21:21 Amplified Bible “He who earnestly seeks after and craves righteousness, mercy and loving kindness will find life in addition to righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) and honor.”

Another translation says “The lovers of God who chase after righteousness will find all their dreams come true; an abundant life drenched with favor and a fountain that overflows with satisfaction”.

As lovers of God who chase after our Lord and Friend, and His righteousness, we can find that our dreams and desires are in alignment with God’s purposes – His dreams and desires and designs for our life. I desire mercy in my life and so I am led to give mercy to others as I walk daily. Sometimes it’s not easy, because I want things my way, but as I yield to Holy Spirit and ask for His help, I find my heart softening and as I walk in His way, I am often amazed at good outcomes.

For example, I may be feeling weary and someone calls with a need for counsel or a listening ear. As I give myself over to what the Lord has called me to; take the time to listen and maybe offer some encouragement; I can find fulfilment – feeling a sense of ‘abundant life drenched with favor’ and ‘ a fountain (heart) that overflows with satisfaction as the person is encouraged/uplifted or can find hope and possibly see a way through what had been overwhelming to them.

I love that our Lord and Friend doesn’t just show us kindness, but loving kindness. Another verse talks of not just mercy, but tender mercies. To me this speaks loudly of how good our Father is to us and so as the Bible tells me “freely you have received, freely give”.

We are the “righteousness of God in Christ”. In this season leading up to Christmas, where there is often more stress and hurry in those around us, let’s be aware and see where we can offer mercy and loving kindness.

I pray that you may experience an abundant life drenched with favor and overflowing with satisfaction.

Kath