Matthew 5:4
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted."
Matthew 5:7
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy."
Jesus continues describing the blessed life. To "mourn" here means to grieve over sin—both our own sin and the brokenness we see in the world. When we feel sadness over the wrong things in our lives and in the world around us, God promises to comfort us. He draws near to those with broken hearts. To be "merciful" means to show kindness and compassion to others, even when they don't deserve it. When we forgive someone who has hurt us or help someone in need without asking for anything in return, we are reflecting God's own mercy toward us. God promises that those who show mercy to others will receive mercy themselves.
Is there sin in your life that you have been ignoring? Take time today to bring it before God honestly and receive His forgiveness and comfort. Then, think of someone who has wronged you. Ask God to help you show them mercy—perhaps through a kind word, forgiveness, or simply by not holding a grudge. Showing mercy is not a feeling; it is a choice you make.
What does it mean to "mourn" over sin? Why does God comfort those who mourn?
Who is someone in your life that you need to show mercy to?
How has God shown mercy to you? How does that change the way you treat others?