“A Father’s Pity”

Tuesday, January 07, 2020

There is a notion that God in the Old Testament was not a loving God. Yet passages like this remind us that such a view of God is mistaken. It is quite clear that the psalmist acknowledges just how God regarded those who feared him.

Divine assurances are promised from the perspective of a father who pities his children. Like human fathers, God does not always protect his children from the pain of this world. He does this for the good of his people. Yet, they are never shut off from his love.

God promises to execute justice (vs.6). He is merciful and slow to anger (vs.8). His wrath is awakened only when it is not righteous to remain silent. He is abounding in mercy  (vs. 10-12). He regards the physical frailty of man (vs. 14-16). And God's mercy will last forever (vs. 17,18).

For what reasons does God pity his people? His care is directed toward us on account of our weakness. He remembers that we are but dust and is fully aware of the struggle between flesh and spirit. He provides wisdom and strength to cope with such frailties.

God pities us for our sin. He is always willing to forgive if we are ready to cooperate with him (vs.3). Amazingly, He will remove our transgressions as far as the east is from the west (vs.12). He wants to renew the relationship with us, and set us again on the right course.

God is fully aware of our sufferings. He would not be a good father if he did not care. Though God does not remove the pain, his grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9). Through God’s strength we can cope.

God has not given what we deserve, but has offered full fellowship with him through his son Jesus. He has promised us everlasting life. Meanwhile in this earthly journey his aim is to perfect us in life and character.

By George Slover

 

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