MERCY SYMPATHISES WITH MISERY. The miserable are the objects of God's mercy. God has revealed His mercy to us in Jesus, in whom it appears in its tenderness, plenitude, constancy, and power. We can expect nothing from justice for we have sinned; but we may expect everything from mercy, for God delighteth in it. The first thing the sinner seeks for is mercy; and the last thing the saint appeals to is mercy. There are many who have not the assurance of faith; they cannot say, "He loved me and gave Himself for me." They feel as if they dared not call God, "Father." It appears presumption in them to claim the promises, appropriate the doctrines, or to say, "The Lord is my God." But they do hope in God's mercy. Mercy cheers them, encourages them, and gives them joy. Because God shows mercy to sinners through Jesus, they hope He will show mercy to them. They are not sure that they shall be saved, but they are looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. How precious to them then is the fact, that "the Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, in those that hope in His mercy." He is pleased to hear them call, and to those who call He will give answer.

For Meditation:
Ye souls who fear His name, 'tis you
The glorious Lord delights to view:
And they, who on His mercies rest,
Shall with His richest gifts be blest.