“Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love.”Micah 7:18 ESV
The last line of this verse stands out to me. As I look through different versions and concordances to investigate further steadfast love also can be; Unchanging love, goodness, kindness, faithfulness.
I thought of myself with my boys. They are crazy little things and often finding mischief to engage in. Such as taking all the clothes out of their drawers at night in order for their dinosaurs to have cozy sleeping spots. Some instances of their mischief are less sweet in nature and require some parental discipline. Truthfully, sometimes in my mind when deciding a consequence I try to weigh out which consequence for them will have the least negative effect on me. Saying we can’t go to McDonald’s for ice cream because they didn’t eat their dinner also means I don’t get to go. Oh, the sacrifices we make as parents. And in those times I explain to them that it would be much more fun if they would follow instructions and not have to face a consequence.
The Bible reiterates over and over how God desires a relationship with us. He would much rather join in a happy time with us than watch us go through a negative consequence. Although, like any good father he is unwilling to spoil us, but the verse says he will not be angry forever because he delights in steadfast love. He wants to celebrate enjoy the wonderful moments with us. He is a God of relationship not just a Lord who watches his servants and enjoys their hardships. What an amazing God we serve!!
Thank you Lord, for teaching me through your steadfast love!
That Could Preach 