The Necessity of Recalling the Fall

Lord, Have Mercy
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me

"Of course He has mercy, don't focus on need, focus on grace."

Perhaps, but there is no understanding of grace without first understanding our need. In order to have a more full picture of what we have been saved to, we must understand what we have been saved from, and to cry out to him from the place of humility. Never assume upon grace--don't use God's faithfulness as a license to sin, and don't forget that it is all Him and none of me. It is entirely appropriate, out of realization of where I am on my own, to cry out for His mercy, not in order to receive it--He has given in already--but out of realization, and even admission, of my need.

Grace out of context can lead to an arrogance, and a constant reminder of the fall (though not in the form of condemnation) is very healthy. How quickly we forget where we were and who we were.

Jesus I've forgotten, the words that you have spoken
Promises that burned within my heart have now grown dim
With a doubting heart I follow, the paths of earthly wisdom
Forgive me for my unbelief, renew my heart again

Lord, Have Mercy
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me

I have built an altar, where I worship things of men
I taken journeys, that have drawn me far from you
Now I am returning, to Your mercies ever flowing
Pardon my transgressions, help me love you again

Lord, Have Mercy
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me

I longed to know you, and your tender mercies
Like a river of forgiveness, ever flowing without end
I bow heart before you, in the goodness of your presence
Your grace forever shining, like a beacon in the night

(Lyrics by Steve Merkel)

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Romans 5:8; Hebrews 4:16)