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)
I mess up regularly. I’m not talking about making a simple accidental mistake (of course I do that too!). I’m talking about something more significant. I may treat someone (often a family member) poorly. I may react to a situation that doesn’t show my trust in God. I may get angry because people don’t do what I think they should do.
In other words, I do things that show that I am a sinner. I have lived over 65 years. I am a long-time sinner.
I really wish that I could just rewind my life and avoid the major blunders that I have made. Well, with no time travel availability, I can’t do that.
Micah was a prophet during the time leading up to when God severely judged the nation of Israel. The above verse is from the final thoughts of Micah, after he had shared about the coming judgement.
In the end, the message of Micah is about hope. Even though God was going to judge, God continued to be a God who “delights in steadfast love” and is a God “pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression.”
Because of Jesus, God forgives! God loves! Even though judgement comes from God, His character is about love and forgiveness. So, as I enter into 2023, I can hit the reset button. I can know that my sins are pardoned and I will not be judged for any of my past failings. My world will be judged, but I can be okay.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You forgive and You love. I am a sinner and I need Your love and forgiveness. I commit to reset my life with You. May I let go of my past and know that you have my future.
