But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief.
Job 16:5 (NIV)
| Finally
Unstifled by Cathy Vinson |
Readers of
the Old Testament often shudder at the severe punishments Israel received for her
rebellions. Yet even at that, we see hints that God wasn't dealing out punishments in
equal proportion to what the sins deserved. He was holding back. Flickers of grace flash
throughout the Old Testament shining towards its full revelation. As glad as we are for
God's earlier mercies toward His nation, God was having to wear a veil. For in not dealing
with the sins fully, He was stifling a part of Himself as being the God of perfect
justice. When could God look mercifully, without wincing, at unrighteousness? Did a single moment usher in this gaze of mercy which would last for eternity? Was it in the breaking forth of a new covenant? While Jesus was paying the price through His blood, we who were revealed as His slayers were being shown complete mercy. The payment was paid that day. God could now totally "be Himself." In forgetting sins He was not going to be stifled. This certainly reveals what need we are in. If we wish to run for cover for all our sins exposed before Him, it isn't necessary, for He has already seen us. "I will forgive THEIR wickedness." What a bittersweet gaze! God our Father looks, and looking forgives. Unclothed we stand before God, and now He expresses His all in mercy. Jesus united it all together! The day has come! In Him, "righteousness and peace have kissed each other" (Psalm 85:10). |
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| "I
will be merciful to their unrighteousness" (Jer 31:34) |
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Send a note to Cathy Vinson , the writer of this devotion.
Other Whispers from the Wilderness Devotions are found HERE
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