TOPIC: The Pardoning God
Someone has said that humor is only the truth thinly disguised. The phrase “I don’t get mad, I get even” is intended to be humorous, but the truth is evident. For some people, this phrase is like a mantra for relationship management. Its corollary statement is, “Do unto others before they do unto you.” Sadly, some people live with anger and revenge in their hearts—and at times that shows in their lives.
Consider this description of God: He “pardons sin and forgives the transgression . . . . [He does] not stay angry forever” and it is His “delight to show mercy” (v. 18). If that isn’t contrast enough, add the next verse. “You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea” (v. 19). With God, the only thing that gets walked over is our sins!
This is an amazing picture of God. He pardons, forgives, shows mercy and has compassion. Don’t miss the application of all of this. What He does is done for you and me. We are the ones who have sinned and need forgiveness. He is the One who through Jesus offers salvation to us. When we receive Jesus, we receive all the benefits of the God who pardons, forgives, shows mercy and has compassion.
And as you think of what this means for you, remember the responsibility that comes with the blessing. Paul put it this way: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Col. 3:13).

Key Verse: Micah 7:18
Authors: Woodrow Kroll, Tony Beckett
Source: Devotions.org