Read today’s texts first: Isaiah 57-59; Psalms 103; 2 Peter 3
MAXIMize YOUR DAY
God’s threats of wrath and judgment are
counterbalanced by His promises of grace!
counterbalanced by His promises of grace!
When we read through the books of history and prophecy it is easy to see God’s wrath and judgment. One family member at Buchanan challenged my beliefs with an article questioning God’s laws. It was written by a Rabbi, of all people, who dismissed some Bible verses because they seem judgmental in our day of political correctness. But our readings today emphasize the counterbalancing theme of God’s grace.
I will not accuse forever, nor will I always be angry....I have seen his ways, but I will heal him; I will guide him and restore comfort to him (57:16a,18).
The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities (103:8-10).
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance (3:9).
We saw it yesterday with the promises of a suffering Saviour. God couldn’t be more gracious and compassionate. But He is also just. There are very real consequences to rebellion. Peter warns us that we have the freedom to walk away from God’s amazing grace, and in doing so actually fall from our secure position (3:17). So much for those who believe “once saved always saved.”
“Lord, where would we be without Your grace. Thank You for loving me when I was unlovable, for forgiving me when my sins were unforgivable, and for extending to me mercy when I deserved Your judgment!”
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