10,000 Reasons –– Ah, Mercy –– November 9, 2014Scripture: Psalm 103:6-10 (NKJV)

Key Verse(s): Psalm 103:6-10(NKJV)The LORD executes righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

Summary: God speaks mercy overs us and offers mercy to us. That does not mean that we do not experience grief and pain from sin, but God’s mercy is for those of us who have royally messed up and need forgiveness. God’s mercy is also extended to people who have endured undeserved heartache and hurt. This mercy that God offers elicits a huge thank you from us – which changes our lives.

Discussion Starters: What are words or catch phrases that you catch yourself saying? Where do you think that catch-phrase came from? What might others around you say is your catch phrase or go-to words?

Read and DiscussUnless otherwise noted, scriptures have been researched and referenced based on the New International Version (NIV); however any

translation is perfectly acceptable to use for discussion.

1. Read Genesis 39:21. Joseph was a young man who was despised by his brothers. In fact, he was so despised that his brothers sold him into slavery. After that, he was accused of something he did NOT do and thrown into prison. What if you replaced the words “steadfast love” in this verse with “mercy”? What is the relationship between God’s love and God’s mercy? Do you think God’s mercy is steadfast like God’s love?

2. Read Ephesians 2:4-7. These verses suggest that God’s mercy is not earned by our actions. God redeemed us through the work of Christ and the Holy Spirit. What does it mean that we are offered undeserved mercy and grace? How are we thankful for that unmerited gift? How does our thankfulness for that gift change our lives?

3. Read Titus 3:4-5. What do you think of when you hear the word ‘rich’? What do you think it means that God is rich in mercy? How are kindness and mercy connected?

4. When you hear the words: “God’s mercy” - what story, scriptures or images come to mind? Please share those stories, scriptures and images with one another.

Respond: Share pictures, images or stories of the things that you were thankful for on the calendar (on the second page of this document) this week. Close in prayer thanking God for His mercy.

10,000 Reasons –– Ah, Mercy –– November 9, 2014Scripture: Psalm 103:6-10 (NKJV)