Gentle & Lowly- Rich in Mercy
It can be easy to feel unworthy of God's love, wondering if his mercy truly reaches the depths of our sin and brokenness. In this penultimate sermon from Gentle & Lowly, George uses Ephesians 2 and Romans 5, to show how God's boundless mercy flows freely—not because of our worthiness, but because mercy is his very character. Reminding us of the prodigal son's story, this sermon unpacks how God in his mercy adopts us permanently into his family, never to orphan us again—even when we stumble. Whatever our current struggles are, whether we're wrestling with past mistakes or current sin, we are invited to experience God's mercy anew; mercy which never runs dry.
Five-day Devotional Material to accompany this sermon
Day 1: It Is Well With My Soul
Scripture: Philippians 4:7
Reflection:
In times of turmoil and uncertainty, we can struggle to find peace. Sunday's service reminds us that even when we don't feel it, it is well with our soul because of our faith in Jesus. The peace of God is not dependent on our circumstances but is a gift that guards our hearts and minds. How can you choose to trust in his promise that he is working in your life today, even when you cannot see it.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help me to trust in your peace that surpasses all understanding. Guard my heart and mind, and remind me that it is well with my soul because of your presence in my life. Amen.
Day 2: Rich in Mercy
Scripture: Ephesians 2:4-5
Reflection:
God's mercy is without bounds and is a core aspect of his character. Unlike human wealth, which can be exhausted (even for the super rich), God's mercy is infinite and always available to us. Reflect on the richness of God's mercy in your life and how it has transformed you from death to life in Christ.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for your boundless mercy that has made me alive in Christ. Help me to live each day in the light of your grace and to extend your mercy to others. Amen.
Day 3: But God
Scripture: Genesis 50:20
Reflection:
The phrase "But God" signifies a turning point in our lives in relation to God's power to shift a situation. No matter the challenge, God can turn things around for his glory and our good. Reflect on and be inspired by the "But God" moments in your life, where he intervened and changed your circumstances.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the "But God" moments in my life. Help me to trust in your sovereignty and to see your hand at work in every situation. Amen.
Day 4: Adopted into His Family
Scripture: Romans 8:15
Reflection:
As believers, we are adopted into God's family, making us his children and heirs. This new identity gives us the assurance that we are never alone and that we have a loving Father who cares for us. Do you embrace your identity as a child of God and live in the freedom and love that comes with it?
Prayer:
Father, thank you for adopting me into your family. Help me to live in the freedom and love that comes from being your child. Remind me daily of my identity in you. Amen.
Day 5: While We Were Still Sinners
Scripture: Romans 5:8
Reflection:
While we were still sinners, estranged from God and unable to save ourselves, Christ chose to die for us. This act of love is the ultimate demonstration of God's mercy and grace. It assures us that our past does not disqualify us from his love, and our present struggles do not diminish his commitment to us. Reflect on the depth of this love and let it transform your understanding of grace and forgiveness.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me even when I was far from you. Help me to live in the light of your grace, knowing that your love is not based on my actions but on your character. May this truth transform my heart and guide my life. Amen.
