God's mercy

We Belong Because of Him

It is God’s mercy that saves, not our own merits. Change in our lives from darkness to light is only because of His outstretched hand.

1 Peter 2:9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR [God's] OWN POSSESSION, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 1 Peter 2:10 for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

In 1 Peter 2:9, the Apostle reminds the Jewish and Gentile Christians of the special privileges they have in Christ and the responsibilities of their calling. Now, in 1 Peter 2:10, he expands on the benefits of their salvation by specifically reminding the Gentile Christians of who they were before their conversion, to who they are now and what God has done for them. There is a stark contrast in their past and present description.

1 Peter 2:10 You Belong Because of Him

For you once were not a people – This phrase is used in Hosea 1:9 when Israel, God’s chosen people, were given a bill of divorce from God because of their disobedience. The Gentiles also understood alienation from God. Macknight on the Epistles writes, “Who formerly were not a people of God, being worshippers of idols; but now are a people of God having subjected yourselves to His government; who had not obtained the benefit of an external revelation, but now have obtained that mercy jointly with the Jews”.

See Romans 9:25-26.

We can relate to the concept that disobedience separates us from God. While raising my children there were times when the consequence of disobedience kept one of them from taking part in family activities. My love for them never changed but their actions were a hindrance to enjoying the privileges of being part of the family. Without God, we are not a people, we are not part of His Kingdom, and we do not belong. Read the Apostle Paul’s words to the Ephesian church:

Ephesians 2:1-3 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.

“We were outcast Gentiles, who were counted as little better than dogs: how grateful ought we to be that we now enjoy the same portion as the favored people of old”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

But now you are the people of God – look back to 1 Peter 2:9 and read the description of God’s people. Chosen, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession – with all the privileges associated with His blessings.

All those who believe are God’s people; having obtained all the privileges and blessings that are bestowed upon those who exercise faith in Jesus Christ.

Before, you were not; now, you are. Can you identify with this significant change? What was your identity before God called your heart to understand His love and your need for a Savior?

If you are now His child, you were chosen by Him specifically to bring glory to His name. You were once in darkness, now you have understanding; you were uncertain of the future, now you look forward to heaven; your security was in people and things which change, now your trust is in God who is always the same. Your happiness ebbed and flowed with circumstances, now you have joy even in the midst of trials and difficulties.

Consider one area how God has changed you. Think of your before and after testimony of His faithfulness. Fill in the blank –

Before Christ I was _________________________, now I am __________________________.

We were without, we were unworthy. Read again Ephesians 2:1-3. God’s children are changed in the present to receive His blessings and for the future to be received into His Kingdom.

Have you bowed before the throne of God? If not, will you? You have everything to gain.

1 Peter 2:10 goes on to say you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Consider what it means to have received God’s mercy or compassion in your life. This will then build a clear picture of the absence of His mercy when we reject Him.

God’s mercy means He forgives iniquity and transgression (Exodus 34:6-7)

God’s mercy means He is ready to pardon, He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness (Nehemiah 9:17)

The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy (Numbers 14:18)

God is rich in mercy (Ephesians 2:1-10)

God’s mercy means He hears our call and saves us from the hand of our enemies (Nehemiah 9:27)

God is abundant in His mercy and calls us to a living hope (1 Peter 1:3)

God’s mercy is certain to those who call upon Him (Isaiah 55:3)

God’s mercy has no end (1 Chronicles 16:34; Psalm 89:28; Psalm 136)

God’s mercy is tender (Psalm 25:6; Psalm 103:4; Luke 1:78)

God’s mercy is new every morning (Lamentations 3:23)

God’s mercy is great (Psalm 103:11)

The earth is full of God’s mercy (Psalm 119:64; Psalm 33:5)

His mercy is over all His works (Psalm 145:9)

God delights in showing mercy (Micah 7:18)

God’s mercy is manifested in sending His Son (Luke 1:78)

God’s mercy is shown in the salvation of sinners (Titus 3:5)

God’s mercy is patient (Lamentations 3:22)

God gives mercy to backsliders (Jeremiah 3:12; Hosea 14:4)

God shows His mercy in forgiveness (Psalm 32:5; Proverbs 28:13; Isaiah 55:7)

God gives mercy in comforting those who are afflicted (Isaiah 49:13)

God’s mercy gives hope (Psalm 130:7; Psalm 147:11)

God’s mercy produces trust (Psalm 52:8)

God’s mercy is for the weak (Psalm 6:2)

God’s children rejoice in His mercy (Psalm 31:7)

Now consider a void of God’s mercy. There is no forgiveness, no patience shown towards us, no protection, no hope, no future, no compassion extended towards us, no strength, no substance, no favor, no Savior. Without God’s mercy we are unable to be faithful, we have no comfort, no trust, and no joy.

Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary describes the absence of God’s mercy as those, “who had been living unpardoned, having no knowledge of the way by which sinners might be forgiven, and not evidence that your sins were forgiven. They were then in the condition of the whole heathen world, and they had not then been acquainted with the glorious method by which God forgives iniquity”.

It is God’s mercy that saves, not our own merits. Change in our lives from darkness to light is only because of His outstretched hand. The relationship with God which was at one time specific to the Jews is now extended to all those who believe. This was an important message to the Gentiles who had been saved in Peter’s time and this is an important message to all today. Salvation is not granted by the religious group you identify with, nor by ceremonies or rituals practiced. The identifier of God’s mercy is Jesus’ blood. God’s work on the human soul, His grace and mercy given through His Son’s death and suffering, and the work of His Spirit, claims His children.

The stark difference between not belonging to God and being without His mercy, weighed against being God’s child and having obtained His blessings, demands a response.

Not belonging to God = without His mercy

Belonging to God = God’s mercy and blessings

Is your heart full of gratitude for His work?

My friend, is there joy in your heart, a smile on your face, and encouragement in your words? If you are downhearted, perhaps there is a lack of understanding of what you have in Christ.

Is your life an offering of service for mercy shown, for His glory? When our concentration is on assisting others for their encouragement and growth, we have less time to focus on our own difficulties.

Because of God’s mercy you belong to Him. Because of God’s mercy you have a glorious future. Let’s be committed that our words, attitude, actions, and pursuits reflect this truth.

You were once not a people, but now you are the people of God
You had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy

Christmas – God’s Love for Mankind, Psalm 136:21-23

Christ did not come to earth to serve Himself. He came as an offering for sin for God’s children who are completely undeserving of His sacrifice.

Leading up to verses 21-23 of Psalm 136, we read of God’s power and protection of His chosen people, Israel. No king was able to thwart God’s plan. God’s judgement upon those who are against His children is severe and complete.

The repeated phrase in Psalm 136 is “God’s lovingkindness is everlasting”. Let’s review what this means. His lovingkindness is his mercy and favor towards His children. Consider Israel’s rebellion against God. Certainly, they suffered from the consequence of their own sin. Their defiance of God brought difficult circumstances upon them, yet God did not throw up His hands and disown or even neglect them. He allowed their discipline, yet carried them through, never abandoning them completely.

What do these truths mean for you? If you are a child of God – meaning you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord, choosing obedience to Him, and you recognize your need of Jesus as your Savior who died for your sins – then you have God’s protection. His mercy and favor is showered upon you. Even when you are unfaithful He will remain faithful in His love for you.

God’s love and mercy is opposite to the love we often display. We only go so far, we become discouraged and give up on people, and we tend to display acts of love only when it is earned. Our love is often conditional, and dependent upon our feelings. God’s love is perfect, consistent and independent of our actions. How do you respond to these truths? Is your heart full of thankfulness for God’s unconditional love? Are you reminded to show this same love towards others? In other words, when God is so willing to shower His love upon you even though you are undeserving, who are you to withhold love from another?

Not only is God’s love perfect, it is forever. There is no limit, no end, and no point in which He will completely withdraw His love from His children. Consider this, when you discipline young children does this mean you no longer love them? Of course not! It is loving to teach them right from wrong and help them avoid negative consequences. This is only a fraction of the picture of God’s love for you. Perfect, abiding love is incomprehensible, yet because of God’s mercy, we have it.

Psalm 136:21 speaks of God’s intended blessing for the nation of Israel, despite their disobedience. Psalm 136:21 says, “And gave their land as a heritage, for His lovingkindness is everlasting”. This verse follows the account of God’s power in slewing the mighty kings who tried to thwart His plan. God not only annihilated these kings but also blessed Israel with the spoils. Why? Because His lovingkindness is everlasting!

Read what Spurgeon says in the Treasury of David, “As Lord of the whole earth He transferred His estate from one tenant to another. The land did not become the property of the Israelites by their own sword and bow, but by a grant from the throne”.

What inheritance do you have as God’s child? If you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior and have placed your complete trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection for the full payment for your sin, then your name is written in God’s will. It cannot be changed. It cannot be erased or questioned or modified. What comes with your inheritance is God’s protection, strength and care for your life on earth. This doesn’t mean there will be no difficulties, in fact we should expect difficult circumstances because people are sinful, but it does mean that you can trust God in all things. There is no fear of man or things being out of the control of God. He’s got you covered!

Psalm 136:22 goes on to say, “Even a heritage to Israel His servant, for His lovingkindness is everlasting”. Each blessing God chooses to bestow upon His children, magnifies His grace to them. Having our heritage in Christ is repeated in this verse so we should pay particular attention to this truth. Our heritage is guaranteed.

Israel as a nation is referred to as God's servant in this verse. Do you serve Christ? Have you recognized His grace? Do you willingly place yourself at His feet? What does it mean to serve? We all serve someone or something. Often it is ourselves we place on the throne of service – our wants, our needs, our likes, our dislikes, whatever makes us happy and gives us the feeling of fulfillment. Be willing to ask yourself who you serve. What is your purpose in life?

Christ did not come to earth to serve Himself. He came as an offering for sin for God’s children who are completely undeserving of His sacrifice. Christ came to serve God as the only way for us to be redeemed. There is no self in what Christ did. Philippians 2:5-8 reads, “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, [and] being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross”.

God’s lovingkindness assures His children of their inheritance in the kingdom of heaven – even though we are totally undeserving! This is what Psalm 136:23 says, “Who remembered us in our low estate”. Wow!

Remember who we are talking about.

The Lord Jehovah, the self-Existent, Eternal name of God (v.1).
The God of gods, Elohiym, the supreme God, mighty in all His ways (v.2).
The Lord of lords, Adoni, Sovereign over all, the One in control, Master and Owner (v.3).

This is who remembers us! In our human thinking, we can desire to be known by a certain group or person. To be part of the life of someone we admire is encouraging. There are all kinds of groups centered on belonging. We feel good when we are part of something bigger.

As God’s child, we are known by Him, we have been adopted into His family, and we belong in His eternal kingdom. Along with these truths, we are cared for by Him, strengthened by Him, made wise by Him, protected by Him, disciplined for our good by Him, encouraged by Him and unconditionally loved by Him. And His word says He remembers us – even in our low estate, even though we are undeserving and cannot begin to earn a place in His presence, God reaches down and secures for us a place with Him. Why?

Because His lovingkindness is everlasting, God’s mercy to us will endure forever – even though we are undeserving. Think of the account of Noah and punishment upon the whole earth. After a time, God caused the water of the great flood to subside. Genesis 8:1 says, “But God remembered Noah and all the beasts and all the cattle that were with him in the ark; and God caused a wind to pass over the earth, and the water subsided”.

We might think we are not good enough to have a place in God’s presence. We are absolutely correct in that thought. Yet, we must remember that God did not send His Son for perfect people (there are none). Jesus came to save the lowly, the imperfect, sinners; all humankind are in need of a Savior. Without Christ, no one is ever good enough. No amount of good works will ever get a soul to heaven. We simply are unable to earn our own way. Identifying with a certain faith does not save you. Baptism will not save you. Going to church every Sunday will not save you. No amount of anything you do is able to save you. Complete dependence on the blood of Jesus shed for your sins is the only ticket to eternal life.

Psalm 113:7 says, “He raises the poor from the dust, and lifts the needy from the ash heap”. 1Samuel 2:8 uses similar words, "He raises the poor from the dust, He lifts the needy from the ash heap to make them sit with nobles, and inherit a seat of honor; for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and He set the world on them”.

What does this mean practically for God’s children? How does this truth apply to your life? God is always here to help us just as He delivered Israel from captivity in Babylon. If God can deliver an entire nation, do you think He is able to help you? How big is the God you trust? News alert – He does not need your intervention to accomplish His will.

I recently had a conversation with someone who is justifiably concerned with the subject of what is being taught and allowed in our public school system. It is difficult to hear that your young child is being directed to explore ideas that are worldly and sinful and directly against the commands of God. So, what do we do about this real problem? Not everyone is able to put their children in Christian schools, and not everyone is able to choose homeschool as an option. Will God protect His children from the wiles of Satan? Absolutely! Are the lies of mankind greater than the power of God? No way! But we do have a responsibility to be diligent to present God’s Truth from His word wherever and whenever we are able, especially in our homes and with our families.

God’s lovingkindness is everlasting. His plan will prevail, He will continue to bless His children and protect them even though they are undeserving.

Psalm 119:155-156

“Salvation! What music is there in that word. Music that never tires, but is always new, that always rouses yet always rests us! It holds in itself all that our hearts would say. It is sweet rigour to us in the morning, and in the evening it is contented peace. It is a song that is always singing itself deep down in the delighted soul.”

Psalm 119:155-156

Ps 119:153-156 Look upon my affliction and rescue me, for I do not forget Thy law. 154 Plead my cause and redeem me; revive me according to Thy word. 155 Salvation is far from the wicked, for they do not seek Thy statutes. 156 Great are Thy mercies, O LORD; revive me according to Thine ordinances.

In this twentieth section of Psalm 119, David is continuing to show us his dependence upon God for His mercies. The Psalmist’s example is to draw towards God in difficulties. There is a clear difference between his relationship with God and those who do not seek to follow God. David refers to them as wicked in verse 155, then he goes back to the blessings he has because of God’s tender love followed by a request to live accordingly.

Truth: Salvation is far from the wicked.

Salvation means deliverance from and victory over something. Salvation is an impossibility for those who choose to live in sin. The Psalmist distinguishes himself from this group by clearly stating his desire for God in the previous verses. There is a comparison between the recognition of a need for God’s word and the rejection of God’s word.

Salvation is ‘far’ or remote from the wicked. It is distant or removed entirely. Consider for a moment what this truly means. There is no hope, there is no deliverance, and there is no redemption. There is no salvation for those who do not follow God. Period.

How do we know those who are wicked? They do not seek God! There is no desire for righteousness. What is the warning for us? Is it possible to use or say the ‘right’ words without being saved? Look at the verb used in the second part of verse 155.

Seek. This is an action meaning to tread or frequent something; in pursuit or search; specifically to worship, to ask, to diligently inquire. Are we seeking God? Do we desire righteousness – in all things? (Versus just the circumstances that we agree with or fit into our plans.) This action is evidence of our salvation!

We are encouraged, even when circumstances are difficult, to continue to follow after the Truth because this is proof of our relationship with God. In other words we say, ‘Yes, this is hard, but in God’s mercy we can and will continue to move forward’. Because He loves us and has caused us to love and follow Him.

Have we been delivered or are we doomed?

Ps 10:4 The wicked, in the haughtiness of his countenance, does not seek [Him.] All his thoughts are, "There is no God."

Job 21:14-15 "And they say to God, 'Depart from us! We do not even desire the knowledge of Thy ways. 15 'Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him, and what would we gain if we entreat Him?'

Pr 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Remember the account of the rich man and poor man in Luke Chapter Sixteen. The rich man died having no need of God. His fate is recorded beginning in verse 23. "And in Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and *saw Abraham far away, and Lazarus in his bosom. ”And he cried out and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue; for I am in agony in this flame.'

If we are saved, we will love God’s word. We will seek His Truths, we will endeavor to obey His statutes.

The Treasury of David on Ver. 155 says – “Salvation! What music is there in that word. Music that never tires, but is always new, that always rouses yet always rests us! It holds in itself all that our hearts would say. It is sweet rigour to us in the morning, and in the evening it is contented peace. It is a song that is always singing itself deep down in the delighted soul. Angelic ears are ravished by it up in heaven; and our Eternal Father himself listens to it with adorable complacency. It is sweet even to him out of whose mind is the music of a thousand worlds. To be saved! What is it to be saved in the fullest and utmost meaning? Who can tell? Eye hath not seen, nor car heard. It is a rescue, and from such a shipwreck! It is a rest, and in such an unimaginable home! It is to lie down for ever in the bosom of God, in an endless rapture of insatiable contentment”. --Frederick William Faber, 1853.

Truth: Salvation is near to those who seek God.

Le 18:5 'So you shall keep My statutes and My judgments, by which a man may live if he does them; I am the LORD.

Salvation leads to obedience. Obedience proves our salvation. The desire to obey speaks of our testimony to Christ – for our good and His glory.

When we seek God’s truths, in His grace we are blessed with His mercy. David writes this truth in the next verse of Psalm 119.

Ps 119:156 Great are Thy mercies, O LORD; revive me according to Thine ordinances.

When we think of something being great, the words grand or abundant come to mind.

Consider. God’s mercy is great towards the most wretched sinner if they come before Him with a heart desiring His deliverance. There is nothing that will keep us from His blessings other than our own denial of Him. When we choose self or the world over God, we reject His love and sacrifice for us.

God’s mercies towards His children are given in abundance! They are more than sufficient, they exceed what we can imagine. A life as God’s child means we have unending compassion extended towards us. There is never a time when we can truly say that no one understands or cares. God always understands perfectly and cares about each of His children. He is not removed from our concerns or struggles or disappointments. Do we seek and accept the compassion God desires to give?

Our Psalmist understood firsthand the mercies of God in his life. David turned his eyes from God and toward sin for a moment. His sin was exposed and when he was confronted by Nathan, he sought God’s forgiveness.

Ps 51:1 (For the choir director. A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him,) (after he had gone in to Bathsheba.) Be gracious to me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness; According to the greatness of Thy compassion blot out my transgressions.

Ps 86:5 For Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon Thee.

Ps 86:13 For Thy lovingkindness toward me is great, And Thou hast delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.

Isaiah encouraged the nation of Israel to turn towards God and seek His mercy. They had chosen to live in sin and reject God, yet, the prophet reminded them of God’s great forgiveness if they would only seek Him.

Isa 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the LORD, And He will have compassion on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.

Isa 63:7 I shall make mention of the lovingkindnesses of the LORD, the praises of the LORD, According to all that the LORD has granted us, And the great goodness toward the house of Israel, Which He has granted them according to His compassion, And according to the multitude of His lovingkindnesses.

“Great are thy tender mercies, O LORD. Here the Psalmist pleads the largeness of God's mercy, the immensity of his tender love; yea, he speaks of mercies -- mercies many, mercies tender, mercies great;” Treasury of David

The KJV reads ‘Great are thy tender mercies’. They are not only great in every imaginable way, they are also tender. God is sympathetic towards our struggles and His care for us is gentle – not quick to anger but quick to forgive.

This certainly speaks of a personal intimate relationship. Our God is not removed from our concerns and weakness and sorrows; instead, He is with us through every step as we seek to follow His ways.

Again, we see a request from David asking God to revive him ‘according to Thine ordinances’. We looked at the word ‘revive’ in Psalm 119:149 earlier in this study. When someone needs to be revived they need some kind of intervention. Often, we may use this word in connection to bringing someone back to life from an unconscious state.

We certainly need to be brought to life when you think of our sin nature!

Ro 6:6,11 knowing this, that our old self was crucified with [Him,] that our body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin; 11 Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary says, “Those that are delivered from the sinner’s doom are bound for ever to own the greatness of God’s mercies which delivered them”.

With God’s great mercy comes His abundant grace to live according to His word.

Ps 119:132 Turn to me and be gracious to me, After Thy manner with those who love Thy name.

God acts in accordance to His word. Great are His mercies given to those who seek Him.

Is our prayer one of admiration for God’s tender compassions towards us and one of request to live for Him according to His word?

Tag: God’s mercy

We Belong Because of Him

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Christmas – God’s Love for Mankind, Psalm 136:21-23

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Psalm 119:155-156

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