SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer

Scripture: James 2:12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom,
13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!

Observation: What a powerful statement: Mercy triumphs over judgment! How grateful we should be that this is true, and that the Holy God is also a loving God. In His great wisdom, the Holy God found a way to be merciful. He did not overlook the sin, but sent His sinless Son to die as payment for the sins of man! Judgment stands against those who have broken the law; however mercy has the power to make the effect of that judgment just as if they had never broken the law. Wow! The guilty who receive Jesus as Savior and Lord are declared innocent yet the cost of their sin has been totally paid!

Application: Having received such mercy, and having the Merciful One living within me, I must be merciful. If I cannot be merciful then I cannot expect mercy. Obviously I continue to need mercy, so I must be merciful.

Prayer: Lord, how grateful I am for your great mercy. May you be blest as you see your mercy flowing to others through me. Amen.

July 18: Isaiah 32-35; James 2

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!