God is compassionate and gracious, abounding in love
Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of money. My dad was a pastor and we lived of gifts. I still remember how carefully my mom managed everything—always watching to make sure there were no unexpected expenses.
If we tore a piece of clothing or accidentally broke a glass, we could definitely count on a scolding for being careless. That would, of course, lead us to feel guilty over what we did.
I am genuinely grateful for the way my parents raised us with the little that they had. But the expectation of punishment for every mistake is a thought pattern I realised I also carried into my relationship with God. Similar dreaded feelings of fear, failure and guilt would surface after making a mistake–like God must be deeply disappointed in me.
Do you recognize this? Do you expect your Heavenly Father to react to you the same way your earthly parents (used to) do?
The Bible assures us that God is:
Full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth. – Psalm 86:15
Jesus took God’s anger upon Himself when He died on the cross and carried all your sins. And remember that:
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9
Jesus took God’s anger upon Himself so that you wouldn’t have to!
Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through Him! – Romans 5:9
Remember that error is human and forgiveness is divine.
God will always welcome you with compassion and mercy, not shame, fear or guilt!
Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for always receiving me with open arms, thank You for pouring all Your anger, disappointment and punishment out on Jesus so that I can receive Your love, mercy and grace instead. In Jesus’ name, amen.
