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- Oct 26, 2007
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Don't you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can't you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? Romans 2:4 NLT
Although Paul had plenty of reasons to praise the Roman church, they were still in danger of misunderstanding some of the attributes of God’s character. On other occasions, Paul’s critics even misrepresented what he taught about God’s patience, grace, and mercy. As he sought to share the goodness of God with this church, he also took care to share the bigger picture about God’s patience.
It’s possible that you grew up hearing about either God’s wrath and anger or His patience and mercy. Both perspectives can misconstrue the aim of God to lead you toward holiness and spiritual health. You certainly need to obey what Jesus taught and live as if loving God and loving your neighbors are the two most important commandments. Obedience isn’t optional. Yet God is patient and kind in leading you away from sin. It may be a process—a very messy, time-consuming process. In God’s eyes, you are worth the wait, but the goal of patiently waiting is your transformation.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me to see the areas of my life where I need to avail myself of Your mercy and patience so that I submit myself to Your redemptive power.
Although Paul had plenty of reasons to praise the Roman church, they were still in danger of misunderstanding some of the attributes of God’s character. On other occasions, Paul’s critics even misrepresented what he taught about God’s patience, grace, and mercy. As he sought to share the goodness of God with this church, he also took care to share the bigger picture about God’s patience.
It’s possible that you grew up hearing about either God’s wrath and anger or His patience and mercy. Both perspectives can misconstrue the aim of God to lead you toward holiness and spiritual health. You certainly need to obey what Jesus taught and live as if loving God and loving your neighbors are the two most important commandments. Obedience isn’t optional. Yet God is patient and kind in leading you away from sin. It may be a process—a very messy, time-consuming process. In God’s eyes, you are worth the wait, but the goal of patiently waiting is your transformation.
Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me to see the areas of my life where I need to avail myself of Your mercy and patience so that I submit myself to Your redemptive power.
