For as high as the
heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him. Psalm
103:11 (NIV)
The discussion was about truth. Seven inmates in our local detention center
gathered for a study titled “Overcomers.”
The first of several “goals” was truth, and we were discussing the critical
nature of truth as the foundation for addressing any issue. Eventually we got
around to the proposition that God knows everything—yes, every
thing about us. Then the question was posed, “How do you feel about that?”
There was no denial that God knew bad stuff about everyone
there. We’re all guilty, and God knows it. The attitude of the true God has
significance after we die—heaven or hell. But our understanding of God’s
attitude also affects the quality of our lives every day. Must we live with burdens of guilt in fear?
Or is there a way to live with confidence of forgiveness and in good
relationship with God?
During a visit to Nepal, we visited many Buddhist and Hindu shrines
and temples. People were worshiping by offering sacrifices of animals, flowers
and food to the many idols, bowing and ringing bells in prayer. Students were
worshiping statues of Confucius and other sages for “luck” in their exams. But the emotion behind all this “worship” is
fear! Fear dominates their every move in life!
Read all of Psalm 103. The truth is, God is love. The Bible
declares it, and Jesus, the Son of God, proved it on the cross. He made the
sacrifice, and that restored the relationship so we can live in peace and
loving fellowship with God in this life and in the next.
Lord, I’m so thankful
that you are a God of mercy and love.
©
2017, Parker Wayland
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