1. Tender Mercies

2. Introduction  Mercy is a characteristic of divine love that causes God to help the helpless, the miserable, and the undeserving.  Mercy is reflected in the Lord’s conduct and commands. It may also be observed in the examples of His faithful servants, both in the Old and New Testaments.  As an illustration of the tender mercies of God, let us consider the following incidents from the life of Elisha.

3. Damascus

4. Tender Mercies  Elisha showed mercy to a son of the prophets regarding a borrowed axe that was lost (2 Kings 6:1-7).  Elisha showed mercy toward the army of the King of Aram that was blinded and helpless (2 Kings 6:8-23).  Elisha showed mercy to the citizens of Samaria who were facing starvation (2 Kings 6:24-33; 7:1-20).

5. Conclusion  Like Elisha, may we show mercy toward our fellow man (Matt. 5:7; James 2:8-13).  Let us also benefit from the mercy that God shows toward sinful mankind, trusting in His promises, manifesting obedience toward His commands (Titus 3:3-7; Heb. 4:14-16).