How do we know we need God's mercy?

Our awareness of needing God's mercy stems from a deep understanding of our sinful nature and inability to achieve righteousness on our own. Romans 7:18 states, 'For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.' This understanding is essential for all believers, as Jacob's admonition to Reuben illustrates; he was favorite yet flawed. In acknowledging our instability, represented in Genesis 49's portrayal of Reuben, we become aware of the necessity for divine intervention. Without recognizing our need, we risk falling into pride, believing we can earn favor with God through our actions. Therefore, God's mercy becomes the anchor for our souls amidst our inherent weakness.