Proverbs 11:17 The merciful man doeth good to his own soul: but he that is cruel troubleth his own flesh.
We need to believe this promise that when we are merciful to others we are actually doing something good for ourselves. The principal is this: mercy makes everybody feel better, both the one who shows mercy and the one who receives mercy. Goodness and mercy has a way of multiplying among everyone around. It grows.
We need to know this promise so that we may more inclined to show mercy and extend forgiveness in every situation. We need to be aware that being merciful does good to our own soul, our mind and emotions. It helps our motivation to be merciful and kind when we see that doing so helps our own self. What’s in it for me? You will feel better.
This must be believed, because our natural tendency is to get even, to get revenge, or to get justice. We tend to think we will feel better when the offender gets paid back, or gets what he deserves. But God says: You will feel better when you are merciful, forgiving and kind. Thus Jesus tells us to prayer like this: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against.” Pray like this because you will do good to the soul.
Jesus repeats this promise this way: “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.” Mind you, God does give not mercy because you are merciful, but because He is merciful. He is encouraging us by reminding us that when you show mercy you do not lose, but you gain.
On the other hand, being cruel and unkind proliferates trouble, and it comes back on yourself and makes you feel worse.