“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”
Matthew 5:7
Extend mercy and compassion to others and you will be blessed, receiving mercy in return.
From the Outline of Bible Usage, the word here for mercy has its root in the following meanings:
- to have mercy on
- to help one afflicted or seeking aid
- to help the afflicted, to bring help to the wretched
- to experience mercy
Additionally, the specific form of the word used in this statement of Yeshua is used in only one other place in the New Testament:
“Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”
Hebrews 2:17
This unique sense of the word in both of these passages implies an active quality of mercy and compassion, one that never slumbers nor relaxes its guard. The compassionate believer is one who is always ready and prepared to provide help and assistance at the slightest indication of need.
The Core of the Bible 