30 Important bible verses on mercy (With Explanation)

Today we will talk about bible verses on mercy. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. Mercy is a gentle, healing word from God — it meets us where we are, forgives our mistakes, and gives us a fresh start. As we gather, we will look at passages that show God’s mercy toward us, how mercy shaped the life of Jesus, and how we are invited to live mercifully toward others. These bible verses on mercy will encourage our hearts, teach our hands, and guide our feet in kindness. Let us read slowly, think openly, and let mercy reshape our daily choices. We will be gentle with ourselves as we learn, and pray that God’s mercy grows in our lives and in our community.

bible verses on mercy

God’s Character of Mercy

When we look at bible verses on mercy, the first thing we meet is God’s heart. We see that mercy is not an occasional act but a part of who God is. As a people, we are comforted by the image of a God who is patient, slow to anger, and overflowing with compassion. In these moments we hold on to the truth that mercy comes from God before it ever comes from us. Mercy from God means He treats us with loving-kindness even when we don’t deserve it. We can rest in that steady kindness and let it reshape how we see ourselves and others. When scripture speaks of God’s mercy, we learn that it is active — it reaches down, forgives, restores, and invites. We can practice remembering these bible verses on mercy when fear or shame comes. They remind us that mercy is reliable and wide, covering our mistakes and helping us move forward. In our prayer and worship, we can echo the truth that mercy is part of God’s name and way. This gives us courage to be honest, to ask for help, and to extend kindness to people who need it most. As we read these verses, let us allow God’s merciful heart to soften ours and teach us to be merciful in turn.

Psalm 103:8

“The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.” – Psalm 103:8

Exodus 34:6

“And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,” – Exodus 34:6

Nahum 1:7

“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” – Nahum 1:7

Deuteronomy 4:31

“For the LORD thy God is a merciful God; he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them.” – Deuteronomy 4:31

Psalm 145:8

“The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.” – Psalm 145:8

Mercy in Salvation

As we think about bible verses on mercy, we find that mercy is closely tied to salvation. Mercy is the reason we are given a second chance. We can see from scripture that salvation is not earned; it is a gift of mercy. When we read these verses together, we learn that mercy meets our deepest needs — it rescues us, it heals the broken places, and it gives us life when we were headed toward death. In our group, we remember how mercy feels like a hand reaching down to lift someone up who cannot climb alone. Mercy in salvation humbles us; it makes us grateful and eager to share that same hope with others. The bible wants us to know that salvation by mercy changes our story — it doesn’t ignore sin, but it replaces the penalty with pardon. We can carry these bible verses on mercy into our daily life as proof of God’s love that saves, helps us start over, and shapes us into people who extend mercy to others.

Ephesians 2:4

“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,” – Ephesians 2:4

Ephesians 2:5

“Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)” – Ephesians 2:5

Titus 3:5

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;” – Titus 3:5

1 Peter 1:3

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,” – 1 Peter 1:3

Hebrews 2:17

“Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.” – Hebrews 2:17

Mercy in Forgiveness

When we explore bible verses on mercy, forgiveness appears as a clear, practical result of mercy. Forgiveness is mercy in motion. It releases guilt, restores relationships, and unburdens a heavy heart. As a community, we learn that forgiving others is not always easy, but scripture shows it as an essential reflection of God’s mercy toward us. Mercy in forgiveness asks us to look beyond hurt and into the deeper work of healing. In our lives, forgiveness may happen slowly, but these verses remind us that mercy opens the way. Forgiveness doesn’t erase consequences, yet it frees us from bitter cycles. When we practice mercy, we become instruments of God’s repair in the world. These bible verses on mercy help guide how we say sorry, accept apologies, and keep trusting that healing is possible. We are encouraged to let mercy govern how we respond when wrongs happen, remembering how much mercy we ourselves have received.

Matthew 18:33

“Shouldst not thou also have had pity on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?” – Matthew 18:33

Matthew 9:13

“But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” – Matthew 9:13

Mark 2:17

“When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” – Mark 2:17

Joel 2:13

“And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.” – Joel 2:13

Psalm 51:1

“Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.” – Psalm 51:1

Mercy Toward Others

These bible verses on mercy shape how we live with other people. Mercy toward others means we choose kindness, patience, and help instead of judgment. As a group, we strive to reflect God’s mercy by caring for people who struggle, blessing those who cannot repay us, and showing respect when others fall short. Mercy toward others looks like listening, bearing burdens, and offering second chances. Sometimes it is a simple act — a word of encouragement, a meal, or time spent with someone who is lonely. Other times it is standing up for fairness or protecting the vulnerable. Scripture calls us to be merciful because we have been shown mercy. This motive changes our attitude from duty to joy. When we practice mercy, we become a living picture of God’s love, and we help others discover the same comfort we have known in God’s tender care. These bible verses on mercy ground our choices and remind us that small acts of mercy matter.

Matthew 5:7

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” – Matthew 5:7

Luke 6:36

“Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.” – Luke 6:36

James 2:13

“For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.” – James 2:13

Colossians 3:12

“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;” – Colossians 3:12

Luke 10:37

“And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.” – Luke 10:37

Mercy in Prayer and Repentance

We turn to bible verses on mercy when we pray and when we are sorry. Prayer is one place mercy meets our need — we can ask, confess, and receive forgiveness. Mercy in prayer teaches us honesty before God and helps us accept that change is possible. When we repent, mercy does not shame us; it welcomes us back. As a community, we pray for mercy for ourselves and others, trusting these promises in Scripture. Reading these passages together gives us words to say when our hearts are heavy. Mercy in prayer also moves us to care for those who are struggling to make things right. We learn to approach each other with gentleness, knowing how much we have been forgiven. These bible verses on mercy remind us that repentance is an open door, and prayer is the path that leads us through that door into healing and renewed life.

Luke 18:13

“And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.” – Luke 18:13

Psalm 86:5

“For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” – Psalm 86:5

Psalm 25:6

“Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.” – Psalm 25:6

Psalm 25:7

“Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness’ sake, O LORD.” – Psalm 25:7

Jonah 4:2

“And he prayed unto the LORD, and said, I pray thee, O LORD, was not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? therefore I fled before unto Tarshish: for I knew that thou art a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repentest thee of the evil.” – Jonah 4:2

Mercy’s Newness and Endurance

We find hope in bible verses on mercy that speak of mercy’s steadfastness. Mercy is not a one-time gift that runs out; Scripture shows it as renewed every morning, constant across time, and declared in songs of thanksgiving. This truth steadies us when life is uncertain. As a group, we remind one another that mercy endures through failure and sorrow. Mercy that is new each day invites us to begin again without despair. When we face repeated struggles, these verses tell us God will not give up on us. Mercy’s endurance also teaches patience: we can hold out for change and extend the same long-suffering attitude to others. These passages inspire trust that God’s mercies will carry us through the seasons of life. Holding these bible verses on mercy close helps us to rise again, forgive again, and keep walking in hope.

Lamentations 3:22

“It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.” – Lamentations 3:22

Lamentations 3:23

“They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:23

Psalm 136:1

“O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” – Psalm 136:1

Psalm 136:26

“O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.” – Psalm 136:26

Psalm 118:1

“O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever.” – Psalm 118:1

Mercy and Compassion in Action

Bible verses on mercy not only teach ideas but also shape action. Compassion is mercy that moves. We are called to show mercy with our hands, time, and resources. When we read stories and commands in Scripture, we see mercy expressed through meals for the hungry, visiting the sick, forgiving debt, and welcoming the stranger. As a community, we want our mercy to be practical — visible help that meets real needs. Mercy in action often looks ordinary: listening to a friend, offering a ride, or confronting injustice gently. The Bible calls us to be doers of mercy, not merely hearers. These verses remind us that action rooted in mercy honors God and brings healing to others. We can practice small acts daily, trusting that mercy multiplied by many hands becomes a powerful force for good. Let these bible verses on mercy inspire our daily choices to serve and care.

2 Corinthians 1:3

“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;” – 2 Corinthians 1:3

Isaiah 55:7

“Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” – Isaiah 55:7

Micah 7:18

“Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy.” – Micah 7:18

Luke 15:20

“And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.” – Luke 15:20

Matthew 9:13

“But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” – Matthew 9:13

Mercy and Justice

When we read bible verses on mercy, we see mercy and justice are not enemies. Mercy tempers justice with love. The Bible does not dismiss right and wrong, but it shows mercy and justice working together to make things whole. Mercy prevents us from becoming harsh while justice ensures fairness and protection for the vulnerable. As a community, we must balance mercy with truth — we offer forgiveness while still pursuing healing and reconciliation. These passages guide us to avoid extremes: neither cold retribution nor careless permissiveness. Mercy and justice together help us restore dignity while addressing harm. We are called to be wise in how we show mercy, ensuring it leads to restoration. These bible verses on mercy guide us to be fair, merciful, and courageous in facing wrongdoing and helping others change for the better.

James 2:13

“For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.” – James 2:13

Hebrews 4:16

“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16

Isaiah 30:18

“And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him.” – Isaiah 30:18

Psalm 25:10

“All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.” – Psalm 25:10

Romans 12:19

“Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” – Romans 12:19

Mercy for the Weary and Suffering

Many bible verses on mercy offer comfort to the tired and hurting. Mercy reaches those who are weak, those who grieve, and those who cannot help themselves. Scripture shows that God’s mercy brings rest, helps in hard times, and brings relief to anxious hearts. When we gather, we say these verses aloud to remind one another that God sees our pain and will not abandon us. Mercy for the weary is practical: it gives strength, grants patience, and promises presence even in lonely nights. As a community, we try to be instruments of that mercy, visiting the sick, sharing burdens, and bringing hope. These bible verses on mercy become life-lines in seasons of sorrow, assuring us that mercy is near and that God cares deeply for every hurting heart.

Psalm 23:6

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” – Psalm 23:6

Matthew 11:28

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28

Psalm 145:14

“The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down.” – Psalm 145:14

Nahum 1:7

“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.” – Nahum 1:7

2 Corinthians 1:3

“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;” – 2 Corinthians 1:3

Our Call to Show Mercy

The Bible makes it clear: because we have received mercy, we are called to show mercy. These bible verses on mercy push us toward action, toward being people who forgive, serve, and bless. Mercy becomes the badge of a community that follows Jesus. In our life together we practice showing mercy in small ways and big ways — by feeding the hungry, comforting the broken, and standing up for the weak. Mercy changes how we speak, how we judge, and how we care. It makes us patient teachers, humble neighbors, and generous friends. Scripture challenges us to let mercy lead decisions, not anger. When we do this, we show to the world what the gospel looks like — not only in words, but in loving deeds. These bible verses on mercy help us remember the source and the goal: mercy comes from God and is given through us to others.

Matthew 25:40

“And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” – Matthew 25:40

Luke 6:35

“But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.” – Luke 6:35

Luke 10:37

“And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.” – Luke 10:37

Colossians 3:12

“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;” – Colossians 3:12

Matthew 5:7

“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” – Matthew 5:7

Final Thoughts

I (and we) have walked through many bible verses on mercy together, and we’ve seen how mercy flows from God and into our lives. We are reminded that God’s mercy is steady, renewing, and active — it saves, forgives, comforts, and calls us to serve others.

As we carry these scriptures in our hearts, let us be people who receive mercy freely and give it generously. We can practice small acts of kindness every day and let mercy shape our choices and our community.

We trust that when we stumble, God’s mercy meets us; and when others stumble, we will be ready to show the same mercy that we have received. Let us go forward encouraged, loving, and merciful.

Further Reading

30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)

30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)

4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4