Do you see God as always angry, ready to beat you with his “rod of judgment” if you fall short? Or do you view him as a loving father who forgives you but is never quite satisfied with your performance?
Psalms 25 says, “Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O Lord.” God doesn’t look for reasons to punish us, and he prefers not to use harshness and anger. Such an approach motivates obedience through fear and produces discouragement and often bitterness. Rather, Romans 2:4 says that his kindness leads us to turn away from our sins.
1 Corinthians 13 says, “Love is patient and kind … It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged … Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” God wants to live in relationship with us, patiently teaching us and leading us. He sees the good, the potential for greatness he has placed in us. He believes in us, cheers us on, and loves us unconditionally.
But what about when we mess up? Psalms 37: 23-24 says, “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.” Our Father takes great joy in watching over us, in walking beside us. When we stumble and sin, he gently takes us by the hand, lifts us up, and forgives us. He continues to walk with us as we try again, and in his great love and wisdom, he is able to use even our sins and weaknesses in his wonderful plans for us. With his affirmation and love, we gain confidence and courage to get up and try again, to move forward and go farther for his glory than we ever dreamed possible.
PRAYER: Dear God, I thank you so much that you are both holy and merciful. Thank you that you are always ready to encourage, teach, and give me one more chance. Thank you that your mercies are new every morning and that you will never leave me or forsake me. AMEN.
Tags: faith, wisdom, mercy, god, discouragement, encouragement, patience, courage, kindness, good, mistakes
