19 August 2025
Scripture: Romans 9:15–16
I will show mercy to whom I will show mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then, it does not depend on human will or effort but on God who shows mercy.
At Sinai, God revealed His glory not through thunder and might but through mercy and compassion. When Moses asked to see His glory, the Lord replied, “I will show mercy to whom I will show mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.” Mark said, “God’s glory is revealed not only in His holiness and justice, but supremely in His sovereign mercy.” The beauty of God is displayed not in granting men what they deserve but in giving grace to the undeserving.
This truth lands with weight on the restless heart. You cannot earn God’s mercy. You cannot force His hand. As Paul wrote, “It does not depend on human will or effort but on God who shows mercy.” Mark explained, “Election is not about human striving. It is about God’s sovereign choice to extend compassion to those who could never claim it.” Mercy runs downhill. It flows to the powerless, to those with nothing to offer in return.
Busy fathers often feel the pressure to be strong for everyone. At work you carry deadlines. At home you carry burdens. Children look up with eyes expecting answers. Wives lean on shoulders expecting strength. Yet God delights to meet you not in your strength but in your weakness. Mark reminded us, “God’s mercy does not rest on the worthy. It rests on those who know they are weak and needy.”
Pause today and admit where you are tired, anxious, or failing. Let God’s mercy meet you there. Pray honestly about the cracks in your armour. Whisper in faith, “Lord, I cannot hold it all together, but You are merciful.” At supper, tell your children one way God has shown you mercy this week. Invite them to share one kindness they did not deserve. In this, you teach them that mercy is the family story of God’s people.
Mercy is sovereign. Mercy is free. Mercy is yours in Christ. Rest in it. Live from it.
Discussion Question:
What area of your life right now needs the reminder that God’s mercy, not your effort, is what holds you?
Prayer:
Lord, meet me in my weakness. Remind me that Your mercy, not my strength, is what holds me. Amen.
Read the sermon notes here.
Watch the sermon here.
This devotional content is not penned by the preacher. It is derived from the sermon notes. We aim to provide bite-sized reflections throughout the week for devotion and reflection.