Reflecting God’s Mercy - All Our Daily Bread Daily Devotionals for 2026

Bible in a Year : Leviticus 19-20, Matthew 27:51-66

In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.
Matthew 7:12

Today's Scripture & Insight : Matthew 7:7-12

A Finnish soldier in the three-month Winter War with Russia (1939-1940) lay wounded on the battlefield. A Russian soldier walked his way, pointing his rifle. The Finn was certain he’d met his end. However, the Russian handed him a medic kit, then kept moving. Remarkably, the Finn later found himself in a similar situation, only the roles were reversed—a Russian soldier lay wounded and helpless on the battlefield. The Finn handed him medical supplies and walked on.

Jesus gave us a central, guiding principle for our lives: “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12). Can you imagine how different our world would be if believers kept this one simple principle? Can we calculate how much oppression would end if we collectively obeyed Jesus’ wisdom? If only, as He guides us, we would give others the same compassion and mercy we’d hope to receive ourselves. As we “give good gifts” to others, we reflect the heart of our “Father in heaven [who gives] good gifts to those” He loves (v. 11).

It’s vital that we see others as not merely enemies or strangers or people with whom we compete for resources or opportunities. Instead, we should see their need for mercy and kindness just as we need it. And as we do, our posture and perspective will change. Then, as God provides, we can freely offer them the love He’s freely offered to us.

By: Winn Collier

Reflect & Pray
Why is it vital to treat others the way you’d like to be treated? How can Jesus help you?

Dear God, please help me reflect Your mercy and love in how I treat others.