How does God dictate mercy?

The dictation of mercy illustrates God's prerogative in bestowing grace upon whom He wills. In Romans 9:18, it is stated, 'He hath mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardens,' demonstrating that God's mercy is not earned by human effort but is a gift from His sovereign hand. This understanding challenges the notion of entitlement or fairness; rather, it reveals a God who exercises His perfect justice and mercy as He sees fit. The narrative of Sihon, king of Heshbon, shows that God can harden hearts as easily as He can offer mercy, reinforcing the view that all instances of grace come from His authoritative decision.