God is Holy. Yet, He is also compassionate: "He knows what we are made of, remembering that we are dust" (Psalm 103:14). He understands why we’ve developed our bad habits and our defenses. He knows the comfort zones where we take refuge when we are stressed. But that doesn’t mean He isn’t grieved when fall back into our old patterns. Think of what it cost Him to give us victory over sin and the power to change. S0 when you sin, confess it, and let His compassion move you to His holiness.
That does not mean, however, we should ever take God’s compassion for granted. Do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? (Romans 2:4 ESV) Or, as the New Living Translation puts it: Don't you realize how kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Or don't you care? Can't you see how kind he has been in giving you time to turn from your sin?
The next time you find that you have fallen back into your old ways, remember His Holiness, yes, but also remind yourself of His love and compassion. Receive His forgiveness and walk away from your past. Isn’t that what it means to walk in the “newness of life”? (Romans 6:4)
I was wrestling with something last night in my mind. It was hard to fall asleep. I read this and was like, "wow, this is just what I needed!" Seriously. Thank you, Greg.
ReplyDelete