From creation we can come to understand the power of God, the intelligence of God, and the ability of God but the most important experience of God from God's standpoint is to experience his mercy.  It is so important, in fact, that God has concluded all in unbelief that he might have mercy on all.  Unless man experiences God's mercy in a personal way by the forgiveness of sin, none of the other ways we know God will be of significance in the long run.  Unless one experiences Jesus he is lost.

            There is a parable in the bible of a man who owes a large debt.  Not able to pay he is subject to jail and imprisonment but the king forgives him the debt.  The man in turn, however, has a person who owes him very little, but instead of forgiving him, he throws him in jail.  When the king hears what happens he changes his mind over the man who was forgiven the large debt and puts him in jail too.  (Matt18:21-35 paraphrased)  Jesus concludes by saying, unless you forgive as God has forgiven you, God will withdraw the blessing because you did not act mercifully.

            Justice is giving people what they deserve.  The king by justice could throw the debtor in jail, but mercy, giving people more than they deserve, demands we show forgiveness.  It is important for us to be merciful having experience mercy ourselves.  It is so important that God could change his mind about the blessing you have received.  This parable indicates that God expects us to forgive.  In the gospel of Mark chapter eleven receiving by faith requires that if we have ought against any, we must forgive.  The answer to our prayer demands we forgive and unless we do, God will not forgive us.

            It is good to take an inventory of your life from time to time.  If  family or friend has offended thee, Jesus tells us to turn the other cheek and forgive.  By doing so you remain in the the good grace of God, and your faith can produce fruit.  If you choose to hold a grudge, God may withdraw his mercy too.  Be merciful and you will be like God.  Be unmerciful and you are a reflection of the world and the devil. Learn the message of this parable and put it into practice. 

 
Amen