The Bible Column - God's Rich Mercy

“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)” Ephesians 2:4-5
The truth of God’s rich mercy described in these verses, explains God’s withholding of judgment that we rightfully deserve regarding our salvation by grace. It is God’s mercy and his love for us that makes our salvation possible. In this we learn of the true basis for the forgiveness of our sins.
A story has been told of a man who labored under a works salvation religion for many years. His religious effort was as sincere as he could possibly be…his dedication to the requirements of his church was consistent. Then one day a witnessing friend explained the truth of God’s mercy. As the Holy Spirit brought understanding, this man realized that mercy was far more powerful than any amount of his human effort and works. That moment he believed the simple gospel message and was born again.
The Old Testament book of Job illustrates for us God’s mercy. God allowed Job who had great wealth and prominence to be brought exceedingly low under the hand of Satan. God’s mercy is seen in “…the latter end of Job…”, in providing forgiveness to him and his three friends. Additionally, Job was given twice as much as he had before. Satan was defeated, the God of rich mercy was honored, and Job was blessed in his deed.
God’s rich mercy is active in our lives as well. May the Lord help each of us to recognize and rejoice in God’s rich mercy today, in our initial salvation and then in our Christian life! “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.” Lamentations 3:22