Gods character

21
Jun
2024
Returning to the Lord: Finding Forgiveness

Returning to the Lord: Finding Forgiveness

The prophet Joel delivers a powerful message about God’s judgment and the importance of repentance.

But within the call to turn away from sin, there’s a beacon of hope –  the promise of forgiveness.  Joel 2:13 offers a beautiful expression of God’s mercy.

“Rend your heart, and not your garments, and return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents from relenting of disaster.”

Joel 2:13

This verse is a call to repentance, but it also highlights God’s compassionate character.

Repentance: The Path to Forgiveness

The first part of the verse emphasizes the importance of genuine repentance. Here’s what it means to “rend your heart”:

    Genuine remorse: True repentance goes beyond regret; it involves a deep sorrow for wrongdoing.

    Change of heart: A sincere desire to turn away from sin and live according to God’s will.

    Inner transformation: Repentance is not just about outward actions, but a transformation of the heart.

God’s Merciful Response

The verse assures us that when we repent, God responds with overwhelming mercy:

    Gracious and merciful: These terms emphasize God’s undeserved favor and compassion towards us.

    Slow to anger: God is patient and doesn’t delight in inflicting punishment.

    Abounding in steadfast love: His love for us is unfailing and enduring.

    Relents from disaster: When we repent, God chooses mercy over judgment.

Finding Hope in Forgiveness

The message of Joel 2:13 is one of hope and restoration. Here’s how this verse can be a source of encouragement:

    No one is beyond forgiveness: God’s mercy extends to all who repent, regardless of the severity of their sin.

    God desires our return: He longs for a relationship with us and welcomes us back with open arms.

    There’s a way back to Him: Through repentance, we can experience forgiveness and restoration.

Returning to the Lord

If you’re feeling burdened by guilt or shame, remember the message of Joel 2:13.  Turn to God with a repentant heart, and experience the incredible depths of His forgiveness and love.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Humility
21
May
2024
Finding Peace in God’s Presence

Finding Peace in God’s Presence

Life can be a roller-coaster, filled with ups and downs that leave us feeling stressed and anxious. In those moments, it’s easy to forget where true peace resides. But Psalm 27:4 offers a beautiful reminder:

“One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and seek him in his temple.”

Psalm 27:4

What Does “Dwelling in the House of the Lord” Mean?

The “house of the Lord” doesn’t necessarily refer to a physical building, although it can include spending time in a church or place of worship; or even a quiet place outside.

Here, it signifies a deeper connection with God. It’s about cultivating a constant awareness of His presence in our lives.

How Can We Dwell in God’s Presence?

Here are some ways to cultivate that peace-filled dwelling place:

  • Prayer: Regularly talking to God, expressing your gratitude, worries, and desires, strengthens your relationship with Him.
  • Bible Study: Immersing yourself in God’s word, allows you to understand His character and His ways, bringing comfort and guidance.
  • Meditation: Taking time to quiet your mind and focus on God’s presence can be incredibly calming.
  • Worship: Singing, listening to praise music, or simply reflecting on God’s greatness fosters a sense of awe and reverence.

Gazing on God’s Beauty

The verse also mentions “gazing on the beauty of the Lord.”

This isn’t about a physical appearance, but rather appreciating God’s character. Reflect on His love, faithfulness, power, and goodness.

Let these qualities fill your heart with awe and peace.

Seeking Him Continuously

“Seeking him in his temple” refers to a continual pursuit of God. It’s about incorporating Him into every aspect of your life, not just during designated prayer times. Remember; you are the temple of God!

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Peace in the Midst of Chaos

By dwelling in God’s presence, gazing on His beauty, and seeking Him constantly, you create a haven of peace within yourself, even when the world around you feels chaotic.

Make this verse a guiding light in your life, and allow God’s peace to wash over you.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Joy, Trust
19
May
2024
God’s Goodness: Beyond Anger and Judgment

God’s Goodness: Beyond Anger and Judgment

Nahum 1:2 – The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath. The Lord takes vengeance on his foes and vents his wrath against his enemies.

Have you ever read a Bible verse like this one, that kinda left you scratching your head? A verse that talks about God’s anger?

It can be tough to reconcile the idea of a loving God, with a jealous or angry one.

Good News: God’s Love is Real

The Bible overflows with God’s love for us. He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins, proving just how much He cares. (John 3:16)

He longs for a relationship with us, filled with joy, blessings, and His presence. He’s faithful and keeps His promises.

But Here’s the Thing: God is Also Just

God is perfectly holy and righteous too.

Sin and evil go against everything He stands for. He hates injustice and the suffering it causes. He’s not some indifferent observer; He’s actively involved, a God of justice and judgment.

Understanding God’s Anger

So, why the anger? God’s jealousy isn’t like petty human jealousy.

It’s a fierce defense of His glory and His name. His anger is a response to evil and the harm it inflicts on His creation and His people.

He’s not impulsive or vengeful, but sovereign, patient, and wise.

How This Impacts Us

This verse shouldn’t make us fearful, but grateful for God’s amazing grace.

He hasn’t punished us as our sins deserve. He offers forgiveness and welcomes us as His children.

This should also make us respectful and obedient. It’s a wake-up call to the seriousness of sin and the importance of turning away from it.

Putting It All Together

Here’s how this truth can be a guiding light in our lives:

  • Facing Troubles: When life throws punches, trust that God is in control. He’ll see you through and deliver you.
    • (Psalm 46:1) God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

  • Seeing Injustice: When you witness unfairness, pray for God to intervene and bring peace and justice.
    • (James 5:16) Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

  • Overcoming Temptation: When tempted, resist the devil and flee from sin. God is your protector and helper. (James 4:7)
    • Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

  • Seeking Forgiveness: When you mess up, confess and ask for forgiveness. He’s your Savior and healer. (1 John 1:9)
    •  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

  • Living for God: As you worship and serve Him, express your gratitude for His goodness and faithfulness. He’s your Lord and King. (Romans 12:1)
    • Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

God’s character isn’t a confusing puzzle. He is both loving and just. He’s not a tyrant, but a loving judge. He’s not distant, but a personal Father. He’s not a weak ally, but a strong and faithful friend.

Let’s rejoice in His goodness, with a healthy respect for His anger, and yes . . . His Wrath! Let’s love and obey Him, worshiping and serving Him with all our hearts. He deserves nothing less.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock