*MDL _~My DAILY LIGHT Reflections_* WEDNESDAY, 14th MAY: *ENCOURAGING MERCY* MDL MAY: *Obtaining Mercy* CAT 2: *Sustaining Mercy* Rom 15:4-5 *_"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had."_* Psa 42:5(-11) *_"Why are you cast down, O my soul? and why are you disturbed within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God."_* *INTRODUCTION* This type of Mercy encouraging you and lifts your spirit, helping you to overcome discouragement, despair, and hopelessness. The Encouraging Mercy of God is a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty. It reminds you today, that you are not alone and that God's love and care are always available to you. This type of mercy inspires you to also be a source of encouragement to others, fostering a sense of community and shared hope. _"The Encouraging Mercy often comes through the people God places in your lives"_ *CHARACTERS* *1. _Barnabas_* - *A Son of Encouragement*: (Acts 4:36-37, Acts 11:22-26). Barnabas was known for his ability to encourage others, notably seen in his support of Paul and John Mark. - *Mentorship and Support*: He recognized potential in others and nurtured it, demonstrating the power of encouraging mercy. *2. _Jesus_* - *Encouraged by an angel*: (Luke 22:43). In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was strengthened by an angel, enabling Him to fulfill His divine purpose. - *Divine support*: This encouragement from God highlights the importance of divine support in times of need. *3. _Jonathan_* - *Faithful Friendship*: (1 Samuel 18:1-4, 1 Samuel 20:1-42) Jonathan's friendship with David is a powerful example of encouraging mercy. Despite the challenges they faced, Jonathan's loyalty and support were unwavering - *Courage and Hope*: Jonathan's encouragement gave David the courage to face his fears and trust in God's plan. _"In the darkest moments, The Encouraging mercy shines brightest"_ As you recieve the Encouraging Mercy today, rise now, pickup that project, that dream/vision, your education, the business idea, pickup again, the purpose for your living; You are designed to fulfil them all, amidst discouragement from whoever in whatever situation... by God's Mercy, you will make it to the end, your children will make it. Your business will blossom again, only if you don't give up. The best part of you is about to be revealed, so why give up now when GOD HAS NOT GIVEN UP ON YOU! *REFLECTION LESSONS* 1. *The Power of Encouragement*: Small acts of kindness and encouragement can have a profound impact on others. 2. *Community and Support*: God's mercy often comes through the people He places in your lives. 3. *Hope and Resilience*: Encouraging mercy helps us develop resilience and maintain hope in challenging times. _"Encouraging mercy develops resilience and maintain hope in challenging times"_ *REFLECTION QUESTIONS* 1. What are some personal experiences where God's encouraging mercy made a significant difference? 2. How can you intentionally create spaces for others to feel seen, heard, and valued? 3. In what ways can you leverage your skills or talents to encourage someone today? _"Through mercy, we find the strength to uplift others"_ *APPLICABLE ACTIONS* 1. *Be Present*: Offer your presence and support to those around you today. 2. *Words of Affirmation*: Use words to uplift and encourage the people you'll meet today. 3. *Acts of Kindness*: Perform acts of kindness that demonstrate God's mercy to others at least two people today. *CONCLUSION* The encouraging mercy of God is a powerful force that sustains us. By embracing this type of mercy, we can be sure of fulfilling our dreams and become instruments of hope and encouragement to others. _"Encouragement is the oxygen of the soul"_ *PRAYERS* - My Father, thank You for Your encouraging mercy that sustains me. Help me to be a source of encouragement to others, reflecting Your love and care. In Jesus Name. Amen 🙏. Now, I pray for you today... May God grant you peace and encouragement today. May you not draw back from any of your profitable endeavours. Now, recieve The Holy Spirit's encouragement to fulfil your Divine Purpose on the earth. Be reminded of His ever-present mercy today. May you be a beacon of hope to those around you. In Jesus mighty name Amen 🙏. *FURTHER BIBLE READINGS* - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 - Psalm 42:5-11 - Hebrews 10:24-25 - Proverbs 12:25 - Romans 12:15 _*More blessings 🙌*_