A Dead Dog Receives Mercy

A Dead Dog Receives Mercy

Scripture Reading: 2 Samuel 9:1-13

Mephibosheth fell to the ground before the king. “Should the king show such kindness to a dead dog like me?” (2 Sam. 9:8 NLT)

David was a fearless warrior, an excellent tactician, a loyal commander, and an obedient servant of the Most High God. With God’s help he defeated the armies of Edom, Moab, Ammon, Philistia, and Amalek, subduing them and making them his servants. He showed no mercy to the enemies of God.

     At the same time, David was a man who showed mercy and kept his covenanted promises to Jonathan, his lifetime friend. The Bible says, “One day David began wondering if anyone in Saul’s family was still alive, for he had promised Jonathan that he would show kindness to them” (2 Sam. 9:1 NLT).

     What do a disobedient son, an unfaithful spouse, and a rebellious nation have in common? All three are in dire need of mercy. The Apostle Paul wrote, “But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so very much, that even while we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s special favor that you have been saved!) (Eph. 2:4-5 NLT)

     David, acting as God’s representative showed mercy to Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, by taking him under his wing and sitting him at the King’s table. “And Mephibosheth, who was crippled in both feet, moved to Jerusalem to live at the palace.” (2 Sam. 9:13 NLT)

     Is it easy to show mercy to someone who has wronged you, to someone who has put your child in danger, to someone who has broken their promises, or betrayed your trust? No, of course not! The sinful nature of man wants to strike back and seek revenge. To show mercy is not natural—it is supernatural! Once you receive mercy, you are able to show God’s mercy to others.

     Again and again David benefited from God’s mercy and forgiveness. When confronted with his sin, he repented and confessed; thus receiving mercy and forgiveness from God. This is why the Bible says, “David was man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22).

     Do you know of someone (a co-worker, family member, colleague, or close friend) who needs a healthy dose of mercy from you? Instead of judgment, show mercy. Instead of revenge, give forgiveness. In place of anger, show love.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I need your help in showing mercy. Forgive me when I’m judgmental. Stir up compassion in my heart for others.