God the Merciful

I recently arrived in San Diego and am preparing to head north to the Calvary Chapel senior pastor's conference in Murrieta, California.  I'm looking forward to catching up with friends, meeting fellow co-labourers in Christ, and seeking God through times of study and worship.  I don't know how free I will be to blog, but as I was reading this morning I came across a fresh passage I thought I would share.

It is no secret that a tendency in people exists to elevate men because of their wealth, fame, or abilities.  Unfortunately this can be common in the church as well.   Men are praised and revered for their preaching or their gifts as musicians and singers.  Sometimes we think people are chosen to serve God in a particular role because of their unique and special talents.  A verse which shatters this misconception is found in 1 Chronicles 16:41.  When David brought the ark of God into the place prepared for it, the writer explains why certain men were called by name to lead others in worship:  "...and with them Heman and Jeduthun and the rest who were chosen, who were designated by name, to give thanks to the LORD, because His mercy endures forever..."

Men were called by name to play musical instruments and sing - not because they were amazing singers - but because God's mercy endures forever.  It is not about the men who praise, but all focus is placed on the praiseworthy God whose mercy endures forever!  We sometimes choose men to serve or lead because of their talents or gifts, but it is God who calls and deserves all the glory.

Some have been chosen by name to preach and teach because God's mercy endures forever.  Some are called as apostles or deacons because God's mercy endures forever.  Men and women are called as prophets or gifted in helps, administration, and faith because His mercy endures forever!  All people everywhere are called to glorify and praise God through their lives because God's mercy endures forever!

As it is written in Romans 9:16:  "So then it is not of him who wills, nor of him who runs, but of God who shows mercy."  A well-known pastor might be very honorable, but God deserves all honor and glory.  God is the one who shows mercy, and He is the one to receive all glory!