The Lord is awe-inspiring, fearsome, fascinating, intriguing, majestic, and full of splendor: breathtaking! Here is what I saw of him in Zephaniah 1:12,
"At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps and punish those who are complacent, who are like wine left on its dregs, who think, 'The Lord will do nothing, either good or bad.'"
Our God is compassionate. In his compassion he desires that all men might come to him. Paul tells Timothy that God "wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:4. When God revealed himself to Moses on Mt. Sinai he he said, "The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin." Exodus 34:6-7.
God is patient with us in his desire that we come to him. Peter says, "He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9. However, some, to their peril, presume on God's patience, misread it and interpret it that God either doesn't exist or won't do anything "either good or bad". Paul warns the rebellious among his readers, "So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?" Romans 2:3-4.
Misreading God's patience for a lack of passion for justice is a deadly peril. "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." Galatians 6:7. The writer of Hebrews tells us, "It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Hebrews 10:31. When it comes time for God's judgment, it will be deadly and swift!
Anything of the Lord capture your heart from Scripture today? Share your thoughts of worship with us from your Bible reading today. We'd love to hear from you!
Trevor Fisk
trevor.fisk@gmail.com
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