Lord, have mercy!

"Lord have mercy!" I don't know how many times I've said this in my lifetime! Maybe one million? It seems to pop out of my mouth when I hear of something distressing or disheartening. I can testify today that as I've leaned upon God, I've seen His mercy in every situation that I've faced when in need of His help. God's mercy is defined like this: compassion; bending or stooping to an inferior in kindness; to have pity; be fair; gracious; favorable. We all need the mercy of God and it's obviously not floating around out there in the world, coming to just any who needs it. On the other hand, the Bible reveals how anyone can have access to God's mercy by certain means. First of all, in Psalms 103:11 (also Luke 1:50) we see that God's mercy is great toward those who reverently and worshipfully fear (respect) Him. Ps. 33 talks about the fact that the Lord, creator of heaven and earth, is our only real help. None can deliver but God. His eye is on those who fear Him and HOPE in His mercy. Putting our hope in God requires action. It's putting all our bets on Him, so to speak, to work it all out His way. In Psalms 86:5, we see that God's mercy and lovingkindness is abundant to all who call upon Him. This passage (Ps 107:23-30) says that when men are on the sea doing business and then come into a storm, they see the high waves and become afraid, they then cry out to the Lord, He brings them out of their distresses and into their desired haven. Who but God can control the elements? Then we see in verses 10-20 that some choose to spurn God's counsel and His way of doing things. They then became depressed and afflicted. But, He saves them because they cry out to Him. He then sends forth His word, heals them and rescues them from destruction. In verse 42 we see that the upright will see this or understand and accept this and be glad. But, the wicked will shut their mouth. Don't shut your mouth! Humble yourself, open your heart, and then cry out to Him. He will help. He will be there for you. Lastly, to receive mercy, we must give mercy (Matt 5:7). This is my testimony as was King David's, (Ps. 37:25-26) I've been young and now am old, yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken or their seed begging bread. All day long they are merciful and deal graciously, they lend, and their offspring are blessed. He is good, faithful, and all He wants is our cooperation! I'm going to do my best every day to stay close to Him. How about you?