Matthew 5:7
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”
Mercy in this passage is all the goodness God gives freely; it is extraordinary to receive mercy from the Most Glorious God. The main message is clear: because God is merciful, we must also show mercy. The Greek word eleēmones means merciful, compassionate, or showing pity, highlighting inward sensitivity to others’ suffering.
In Hebrew, there are several words parallel to eleēmones. First, khesed, meaning steadfast love—God remains faithful even when His people are often unfaithful. Second, anawa, indicating God’s mercy that does not repay human evil according to the demands of the Law. Third, noam, referring to a beautiful and praiseworthy kindness of heart. Fourth, ratson, meaning a favorable disposition—a heart that continues to accept and be pleased with others. These are the Lord’s traits and character that we must possess. Thus, when Scripture says, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect,” it means we must have the Father’s character—not merely general morals, but divine character.
In Greek, there are also words closely related in meaning to eleēmones. First, khrēstotēs, pointing to goodness of heart aligned with khesed, that is, graciousness. Second, haplotēs, meaning generosity in giving—not stingy, not miserly. Third, epieikeia, meaning gentleness and kindness. Fourth, agathos, indicating sincere goodness of heart. Interestingly, in the New Testament, these words are more often applied to humans than to God. While the Old Testament often points to these qualities in God, the New Testament calls God’s chosen people to possess the Father’s character. We see God’s firmness toward sin in the Old Testament, but also His mercy that we must emulate and live out.
In depth, being merciful means: first, forgiving. They gladly and willingly forgive those who have wronged them. Second, a person who carries burdens for the suffering of others. They cannot remain indifferent to someone else’s pain. God’s Word is like a double-edged sword; both the one who speaks it and the one who hears it can feel the divine passion flowing from it. From that passion, a divine character of mercy accumulates. A person cannot suddenly become merciful. Many postpone the formative process, whereas each opportunity should be used to seek God and let Him shape our hearts. Make God your only world. Do not let busyness and worldly matters drown and deaden the sensitivity of your heart.
Jesus is the exemplary Person who forgives those who have sinned, no matter how evil they are. Therefore, as His servants, we have no reason not to forgive. In Matthew 6:9–13, forgiveness is a clear command, on par with other commandments. The Lord even warns that if someone does not forgive his brother, the Father will not forgive him (Matt. 6:14–15; 18:35). 1 John 3:15 asserts that anyone who does not love his brother is a murderer. This is not a light matter. It is easy to say but very difficult to do. Yet through the passion and power of the Lord flowing through His Word, we are enabled to forgive—no matter how heavy—”forgive and forget,” to forgive and no longer hold the offense in our hearts.