February 22 ~ Habakkuk 3:2
I know your reputation, LORD, and I am amazed at what you have done. Please turn from your anger and be merciful; do for us what you did for our ancestors.
We don’t have to look very far in mainstream media to see examples of people who hurt or disappointed someone else… and received forgiveness. Often, they didn’t deserve this. Often, the initial reaction was anger and disgust. But then, mercy followed, and forgiveness at least appeared to be offered. We will never know for sure what transpired behind closed doors. We can never be certain that these people were truly forgiven for their misdeeds… or that time spent in jail or rehab or separation from family and friends really repaired the damage and helped them long term. But thankfully, we are not responsible in these situations, and quite frankly, they are none of our business either way!
What is our business is how we behave – and more importantly, how God deals with us. God knows that we are sinners and fall short of deserving His glory every day. When we ask Him for mercy, we must be willing to accept His decisions … including any consequences for our actions. We must humbly make every effort to correct our sin and be worthy of mercy. While we must do all we can to make amends with anyone we wrong, we must be especially certain that we set things right with God… that we beg Him for mercy and forgiveness – and then do everything we can to show that we have changed and deserve it.
We can’t rest on the assurance that “God forgave So-and-So for this in the past, so He will forgive me” or, as in the words of more than one little child… “I said I was sorry!” We have to stay in constant communication and relationship with God. And when we do fail, we have to be ready to ask for forgiveness and do everything necessary to receive it. I am amazed at what God has done for us… and for others. I am humbled that we serve a God who is so incredibly loving and forgiving. I praise Him for giving us a love and grace we do not deserve – and knowing how desperately we need His mercies.
©2009 Debbie RobusScripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
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