Friday, October 23, 2020

Yet he was merciful; he forgave their iniquities and did not destroy them. Time after time he restrained his anger and did not stir up his full wrath.

Psalm 78

Yet he was merciful; he forgave their iniquities and did not destroy them. Time after time he restrained his anger and did not stir up his full wrath. Psalm 78:38

Day 272 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues as my commentary* uses 11 psalms (over several days) to describe "praise to God for hearing the people’s prayers in captivity and for being faithful in his promises of restoration".

*Smith, F. LaGard. The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®). Harvest House Publishers. Kindle Edition. 

Psalm 78 describes how Israel and Judah got itself into trouble by failing to truly worship God and remember all that He has done and who God is. Verse 38 nicely summarizes God mercies not just for the Jewish nation, but for all of us as believers.

God is merciful indeed - not giving us what we deserve (Romans 6:23) but giving us what we don't deserve. 

My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are merciful and compassionate - full of patience and mercy for me - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such mercy and compassion.  My sin continues - I often lack patience for others and am harsh with my words and actions.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.