David said to God, ”I am in deep distress. Let us fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great.” 2 Samuel 24:14

Jean Werth, an Air Force wife, experienced a horrific tragedy when her 13-year-old son died while her other son David lay hospitalized for three months. Responding to the painful tragedy, Mr. Werth’s squadron showed incredible support by staying at the hospital and assisting with immediate needs. A scholarship fund was raised in Stevie’s name at a local high school while colleagues lined up to donate leave-time so Mr. Werth could help David recover. God used the squadron to demonstrate His mercy in coping with the pain of losing a son.

That’s what God’s mercy does, it shows His goodness toward those in misery and distress. In today’s verse, David was in deep distress, thus longing to rest in his merciful God. In 2 Corinthians 1:3, Paul explains how God comforts us in affliction as he calls God the “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.” When we are in need, we are to draw near to God so that we might receive both mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16), something He delights in giving (Micah 7:18). Just as mercy is part of God’s character (Exodus 34:6, 7), so should mercy be a part of our character. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Matthew 5:7).

“When in doubt, lean to the side of mercy.” – Miguel de Cervantes