It has been a very long time since I’ve posted anything to  my blog. I will have to admit that I have been more distracted with social media like Facebook and Google+. My pastor mentioned to me this morning that he was going to deactivate his Facebook account at the end of the year because of it’s distraction. This prompted me to start thinking about how much I’ve let the social media distract me from living a more productive life. Along this line of thinking I am going to post my sermon notes from the sermon this morning. Pastor Mike Rue has been taking us (Wahoo CBC) through a biblical exposition study through the Beatitudes. (Matthew 5) This morning we looked into Matthew 5:7 and the joy of mercy. The following are my notes:

Joy in Mercy (Matt. 5:7)

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. (Matthew 5:7 ESV)

Mercy is a relief from a plight.

The assumption of this verse is that mercy has already been given to the believer. There is also a future mercy.

Mercy – Compassion in action.

To be merciful is:

I. Realize the mercy shown to you by God.

II. Respond to the needs and miseries of others.

Example: The good Samaritan Luke 10:29-37

Look for opportunities to serve others in need. Driven by compassion.

III. Relieve the guilt of others.

Everyone lives in a spirit of guilt or regret.

Matt. 18:21-35

For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. (Matthew 6:14, 15 ESV)

Regardless of the sin another has done toward you, your sins against a holy God are even greater.

Soli Deo Gloria