Mercy’s Reach

Tuesday, September 30

Isaiah 64:6 (BSB)

“Each of us has become like something unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all wither like a leaf, and our iniquities carry us away like the wind.”

Devotion

Where were we when we found Jesus? What righteousness of our own could we stand on? Isaiah the prophet spoke a word from the Lord, saying, “Listen to Me, you who follow after righteousness, you who seek the Lord: look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the hole of the pit from which you were dug” (Isaiah 51:1). Sometimes, unintentionally, in our own self-righteousness, we forget that it wasn’t until we called upon the name of Jesus to be saved that our lives were transformed. It was the merciful heart of our Savior that delivered us from the pit we were in.

And He used someone to reach us—someone fallible, just like us; someone who understood, someone we could relate to. That person took the time, cared enough, showed us what Christ’s love looked like, and, in humility and love, told us about Jesus’ forgiveness when we were lost and without hope. This was Mercy’s reach.

As we have freely received, we need to pass this gift of mercy forward. Don’t wait until life is perfect to share what God has done. Mistakes or tragedy do not disqualify us from being a witness for Christ—they qualify us, especially the battle scars, which are most relatable. Our lives are a living testament to His sustaining power and goodness.

So, be Mercy’s reach and share Jesus. “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!’” (Romans 10:14-15).

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

I am so grateful for the forgiveness and mercy You showed me while I was still bound by a sinful nature. You rescued me. Now, as I have received Your grace for salvation, please use me to reach others with Your love. I pray for open doors to share what Christ has done for me. I pray for boldness and freedom to speak freely as I ought to speak. May my very life be a witness for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Apply It Today

Embrace Your Testimony: Study Isaiah 64:6. Reflect on a personal “stain” or struggle that God has transformed, or could transform, into a testimony to encourage others.

Resources
  • Watch this short clip and be reminded that God knows what he’s doing!
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