"Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." (v. 4)

For Reading and Meditation:     Philippians 2:1-13

As we conclude our study of the phrase, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy", we ask ourselves: What would happen if we really put into practice this important principle? It would mean that we would look at everyone through Christian eyes. We would see sinners, not merely as the victims of sin and Satan, but as men and women who are to be pitied. We would see a fellow Christian who falls by the way, not as someone to come down on, but as someone to be lifted up. Far too many of us walk about with judgmental attitudes, and whenever anyone slips up, we either harangue them with a Bible text or wither them with a look of scorn. We have the philosophy of an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. Failure is met with derision and wrong is met with contempt. I have no hesitation in saying that such attitudes ought not to be found among the people of God. Wherever they are present, they will eat like acid into the soul. Being merciful means letting Christ have control of our lives so that His gentleness overcomes our vindictiveness, His kindness our unkindness, and His bigness our littleness. Are you a merciful person? Do you look upon those who have fallen with concern and compassion - or is your attitude one of contempt and scorn? Can you feel pity for those who have been duped by the world and the devil? If so, then - congratulations! You have passed the test and are on your way to experiencing spiritual health and happiness. Blessed indeed are those who are merciful - for they will obtain mercy.

O my Father, with all my heart I cry out - help me to be a merciful person. Touch my whole being today by Your blessed Holy Spirit so that I might be changed into Your image. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.