Judgment vs. Mercy

The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 8:11, “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.”

In the foundation of our country, men were ruled by principle rather than emotions.  Because of that, they were jealous for liberty and loved their country to the point of putting their lives, fortunes and honor on the line.  They would speedily bring judgment upon lawlessness because of the high price that was paid to bring us liberty.

Nowadays, anyone who talks about maximum penalties on crime and injustice is accused of being unmerciful and cruel.  But if we take a step back and ask the question, “Wait a minute, who broke the law?”  Not the judge or the police officer who arrests a criminal; not a preacher who exposes unrighteousness; not a people who are calling for justice to be brought about.  No – those are the ones who love.  And while justice is being brought about, we pity those who are paying the penalty for their crimes so they can learn the lesson and walk in true peace – within the confines of the law.

To show you the right heart behind judgment and mercy, read the analogy below: