The Mercy of God

Isa. 10: 1-4, 'Woe to those who decree unrighteous decrees, who write misfortune, which they have prescribed to rob the needy of justice, and to take what is right from the poor of My people, that widows may be their prey, and that they may rob the fatherless. What will you do in the day of punishment, and in the desolation which will come from afar? To whom will you flee for help? And where will you leave your glory? Without Me they shall bow down among the prisoners, and they shall fall among the slain.' For all this His anger is not turned away, but His hand is stretched out still.'

It's simply in God's nature to reach for redemption rather than revenge like we do. It's a miracle that we are still living today! God has so much love and mercy for us, His forbearance and patience bring peace knowing that even in our darkest hour - His hand is stretched out still.

Eph. 4: 30 - 'And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.'

This is very interesting because unfortunately we grieve the Holy Spirit all the time...our fleshly decision-making can in fact mock His Spirit...but what bothers me about this scripture is the part about '...day of redemption.'

This gives the impression that, I can ask God to forgive me, live for Him, but if I fail to trust Him, rebel against His word...refuse to have His spirit IN me, I will not be sealed on the day of redemption.

Ps. 78: 36-39, 'Nevertheless they flattered Him with their mouth, and they lied to Him with their tongue; for their heart was not steadfast with Him, nor were they faithful in His covenant. But He, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and did not destroy them. Yes, many a time He turned His anger away, and did not stir up all His wrath; for He remembered that they were but flesh, a breath that passes away and does not come again.'

God's mercy outweighs justice!

The key is understanding the difference between having God with us versus having God IN us...I can't argue whether or not God is with you, but what about dwelling IN you? This is seen when your flesh is at its weakest point.

The mercy of God is every present, He's waiting for you and I to run to Him; in Him alone will we find the mercy and forgiveness necessary to survive