INCOMPARABLE PARDON
But You are God, ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abundant in kindness. (Nehemiah 9:17)
The character and nature of the Lord is described in the following passage found in Nehemiah 9:17, “But You are God, ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, abundant in kindness.” These are qualities seen only in the Lord our God, therefore, we give and receive forgiveness based upon His presence alone.
David, King of Israel, found this grace (the grace to forgive). How did he find it? Why doesn’t everyone find it? This grace is known only by those who spend time with the Lord. Revelation of His grace is known only through intimacy with Him.
Let us examine a few lines from Psalm 51 that are clear examples of one who knows God and thereby receives abundant pardon! Psalm 51:1-4 says, “have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your loving-kindness; according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight.”
David’s plea for mercy is not predicated upon his merit, but God’s mercy and loving-kindness. Forgiveness is never earned nor is it deserved. However, it is extended to all who have transgressed the laws of God. Not all who transgress walk before the Lord without guilt and shame, but only those who receive God’s offer of His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ.
David realized that his sin was against the one and only Holy God. You must recognize this also.
Receive today all the benefits of forgiveness. Jesus died for your sins. Therefore, you can lead a life without guilt and debilitating regret! The Lord’s matchless grace is for you!
In Christ,
Pastor Donald G. Leavell
