September 7, 2015: SOAP #2104:

Scripture: 2Chronicles (NIV) 25: 15 The LORD, the God of their fathers, sent word to them through his messengers again and again, because he had pity on his people and on his dwelling-place. 16 But they mocked God’s messengers, despised his words and scoffed at his prophets until the wrath of the LORD was aroused against his people and there was no remedy.

Observation: Three words that show us the Father heart of God—“again and again.” Yes, judgment is coming because of their sin and rebellion. Does God enjoy bringing judgment on His people? No!   Would God rather that they repent and give Him the opportunity to forgive them? Yes! Yes! Yes! So He warns them “again and again.” God is no different than an earthly parent telling their child it is time to clean their room. They give them a deadline. They threaten them with consequences. They send a younger brother and then an older sister with a message that they will be soon coming to inspect their room. They hope against hope that they will be able to see a clean room, congratulate their child and give them a reward. But knowing their child likes to procrastinate, they are quite certain that the room will still be cluttered and they will have to discipline the one they love. So they warn them “again and again.”

Application: God would much rather reward me for doing good than discipline me for doing evil. His loving heart breaks when He has to punish me. That same heart is full of mercy when I run to Him and seek His forgiveness and willingly take any consequences that will help me not sin again. Oh how He loves me!

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, I know this world is full of things that break your heart. I want my life to bring you joy. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!