As Yet

flwrng_dogwood_flower_lgII Kings 13:23 And the LORD was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet.

As with nation of Israel, the LORD knew that if we are left alone, we will destroy ourselves.  The Israelites were unfaithful, forsook their God and served the gods of the people around them, which resulted in captivity over and over again.  First and Second Kings records the evil done in the sight of God and how the kings of Israel led the people into sin.  Here, we learn several things about the character of God:  He is good, merciful, loving, respectful of us (because of HIS covenant and not our waywardness), faithful, and forgiving.  We also learn several things about ourselves, as a nation of people, as well.  There is a tendency to be disobedient, to do evil in God’s sight, to call on Him in the time of trouble, to forget His goodness, deliverance, and unfailing love only to return to the same wayward deeds.  Though the full wrath of God is deserved, He has not destroyed us, neither cast us from his presence, as yet.  He is patiently allowing us an opportunity to repent of our sins so that He may wipe our slates clean.

Scripture References:  Judges 2:11-13; 3:7,12;4:1; 6:1; I & II Kings

Prayer for today:  Father, thank you for being slow to exact judgement upon me.  Forgive me, I pray, for my sins.  Thank you for forgiving me and not casting me away from your presence.  In JESUS name, AMEN.

Photo by: Korhnak

Whatever you must do today, there is a grace for that.  Accept the grace and make it a sweatless day.

Love

Dianne