How do we know God chooses to show mercy?

The choice of God to show mercy is rooted in His sovereign will and is illustrated in scripture through various accounts. The Syrophoenician woman exemplifies this, as she approached Jesus, who initially did not respond to her plea, signifying the humbling nature of this mercy. The Lord, however, acknowledges her faith and grants her request, underscoring that God's mercy is not confined to the elect of Israel but extends to those outside this ethnic lineage. Additionally, Romans 9 articulates that God’s mercy is given according to His purpose, demonstrating that it is not about human works or lineage, but rather His divine election and grace.