Psalm 103:8
The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in mercy.
Dear Heavenly Father,
We need this reminder of your qualities, especially as we live in this world that is out for itself. Compassion and grace seem imperfect, while tensions mount and mercy is limited; this is the way of the sinful world. Each person looks out for themselves, and our sinful nature makes it a survival of the fittest.
Those who do not know you feel their consciences telling them right from wrong and holding them accountable for their actions. For those who do not know or trust you, most seem to know there is some higher power and try to appease it, while others give up and do whatever they feel—the world curbs its misbehavior by orchestrating laws to keep the public in check.
However, to know you means this: to know your qualities, will, and how you carried out your love for people. You are compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and merciful. You desire to save all people; you designed your plan to save all because our sins push and separate us from you. You sent your Son to live the perfect life we were unable to live; then Jesus went to the cross to endure the punishment for every one of our sins. His resurrection from the dead proves you accepted his payment for all sins. Forgiveness is for all; it comes to each who believes in Jesus.
You tell us in your word that you do not take pleasure in the death of an unbeliever; you want people to believe in you. By faith in Jesus and his work, we are brought to you; you are compassionate and gracious; salvation was made possible at your Son’s expense because of your love for all people. You are slow to anger, giving each person a time of grace to know, trust, and believe in you. Also, for Jesus’ sake, we do not get what we deserve—being condemned eternally—instead, you bless us with salvation in condemnation’s place; this is your mercy.
We ask for courage to share our faith with those who do not yet know or trust you; we ask that you please spark faith in them so they will trust in your qualities, enjoy your peace of forgiveness, and be confident in salvation for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
God wants you to know Him; he is not angry but loving. In fact, he loved you so much that he sent his Son to suffer in your place and pay the price for your sins so that by believing in Jesus, you have salvation and eternal life. Moreover, he is patiently waiting for you.