Nothing we can do can merit God's mercy, it is based on God's sovereign choice which should be humbly respected.

God elects a remnant. He sovereignly chooses to bless as he did when he chose to bless Isaac and Jacob. He chooses unconditionaly and selectively according to his purposes.

Paul had the compassionate heart of a missionary. His compassion was self-less and informed, as well as, painful at time.

God admires giving from a committed heart.