At first glance, this verse feels like something we already know: of course, God has mercy. Of course, He has compassion. But Paul isn’t just making a theological statement here—he’s reminding us that mercy is God’s choice. Always has been. Always will be.
It’s not earned. It’s not owed. It’s not a reward for good behavior.
That can be a hard truth to sit with—especially when you’re trying your best and still falling short. But it’s also incredibly freeing. Because if God’s mercy is given freely, then your value isn’t riding on your performance. It never was.
So, what do we do with that kind of mercy?
We rest in it. And then we pass it on.
It might look like forgiving someone who doesn’t seem sorry, or choosing not to respond with sarcasm when your spouse forgets (again). It could be offering a helping hand without keeping score or choosing not to vent about that coworker who really is making your day harder.
Mercy isn’t always flashy. Most of the time, it’s quiet. It’s grace in the tension. Compassion when it would be easier to walk away.
So today, take a deep breath and remember—you’ve been chosen for mercy. Not because you earned it, but because God loves you. And you get to reflect that love in the way you move through your world.
Uncalculated. Undeserved. Unshakably good.
