the Rev. Henry Huenemann
Justice and judgment are the habitation (establishment) of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face (Psalm 89:14),
Bible Reading
Psalm 85:Devotional
Mercy and truth belong together. They are met together. They are met together in Jesus Christ, who is the truth, and through whom alone mercy can be bestowed upon sinners. Mercy and truth go before him, wherever the Gospel is proclaimed. "God shall send forth his mercy and his truth." He extends his gracious invitation to sinners: "Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David." We can depend on it, for his testimonies are very sure. And wherever these mercies are received and these testimonies (truth) believed, there is an unfailing source of comfort and strength in life and in death; for all the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. We may not understand the way that God leads us; but we know and believe that "the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations." Let us remember, that "by mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil." And also, "Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good." So, dear reader, "Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart; so shalt thou find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man."
Prayer
Merciful God and Father, not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto Thy name give glory, for thy mercy and truth's sake. We cannot claim the least credit for our salvation; for by nature we are dead in trespasses and sins. But Thy mercy is great enough to cover all of our sins, and to bestow upon us righteousness and life. We thank Thee for Thy Word of truth that assures us of life eternal through Christ Jesus. In all our sins, sorrows and strife; in our trials and temptations, may Thy Word of truth uphold us, and Thy mercy compass us about, until we reach our heavenly home, to be with our Saviour for ever more. We pray in his name. Amen.
Scripture in Devotional: Ps. 85:10; 57:3; Isa. 55:3; Ps. 93:5; 25:10; 100:5; Prov. 16:6; 14:22; 3:3, 4.
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