Mercy- Its like a big hand reaching out to hold you

Yesterday, I felt convicted by failing to be merciful. In the book "Lord Only You Can Change Me," that my boyfriend and I have been going through, Kay Arthur shares four ways in which we can show mercy.

1. When you see a person in need and you can meet his needs, do so. (James 2:16-16)
2. Fully forgive anyone who is indebted to you in his behavior or attitude (Colossians 3:12-15)
3. If you are going to be merciful, then you need to give understanding rather than judgment. Ask         yourself, "Have I sat where they are living?" (Ezekiel 3:15, Luke 6:36-38)
4. Be merciful toward the character of others. We have different personalities, different temperament types. Therefore, you need to be merciful and respond to others in the light of their personality needs.
• As is paraphrased by Kay, 1 Thessalonians 5:15; Hebrews 10:
• Some people need assurance. Give them assurance.
• Some people are insecure. Affirm them.
• Some people are weak. Support them.
• Some people are timid. Encourage them.
• Some people are reserved. Spur them on to love and good works.

How often am I quick to assume my way is the best way? When I get frustrated, the first thing to go is showing mercy.
Now, I would like to specifically refer to:

Luke 6:36-38

Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”