God enjoys teaching us the simple and basic things. For instance, we are told to forgive others and we are given the example of how He has forgiven us through Jesus Christ (Colossians 3:13). So we should forgive every time and without holding back. We should include ourselves in this forgiveness. We tend to be the hardest on ourselves when we fail or are weak. We should extend, even to ourselves, the mercy that God gives. Another basic teaching from God is the need for humility. Again, we are given the example of Jesus Christ, who took the form of a servant and humbled Himself to endure death on the cross for our salvation. (Philippians 2:5-11)
Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” I am convinced that two of the most important attributes that God wants His children to demonstrate are mercy and humility. Mercy is the quality to allows us to forgive others and to be patient with ourselves when we are weak or fail. Humility is the attribute that enables us to trust and follow God, even through the difficult times.
Reluctant Retiree 