Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. Micah 7:18 NLT
In asking the question, “Who is a God like you?” the author acknowledges there are other gods, but there is only one God (uppercase “G”). When we think of gods, our minds may turn to Greek or Roman mythology–they had tons of gods, to explain the mysterious and transcendent aspects of existence. Whatever they didn’t understand, they attributed to a god. Since the dawn of time, people have worshipped household gods, spirits the families believed provided protection, guidance, and a sense of connection to the sacred within the home. People have worshipped earthly things, like riches and fame.
But none of those other gods had true power over the human soul. For example, the Greek and Roman gods were used to explain the rule of cosmic order (Jupiter/Zeus), the balance of nature (Diana/Artemis), and passion and desire (Venus). Still, they cared nothing for the human spiritual condition. Whether we sinned or were in a state of righteousness mattered not to them; we were playthings at their whim.
There is only one Triune God who can pardon our sins and transgressions. When we slip up and fall short and willfully rebel, he stands ready to forgive. Not only does God forgive, but he delights in showing his mercy. Despite our defiance of his will, God the Father sent his pure and blameless Son to offer the atoning sacrifice. It was God himself in human form that came. God, the Holy Spirit, takes up residence in our souls, leading and guiding us so we can become the loving creation we are meant to be.
There are lots of temptations that surround us today–lots of little gods clamoring for our attention. There are gods of scarcity, despair, and broken relationships–the list goes on and on. But these gods, like the gods of mythology, can do absolutely nothing to save our souls; they simply breed more of the same grief. Only one God, “Who Is,” loves us when we are at our best and worst. Who greets us every time we come in repentance with open and loving arms.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your unfailing love, a beacon that never wavers despite our human frailties. You remain steadfast even when we stray far from your path.
In the depths of our transgressions, you extend your hand of mercy. You pardon our iniquity, not holding onto anger forever. Your heart delights in compassion.
Who else is like You, O God?
You, who forgives when we stumble.
You, who embraces us in our brokenness.
You, who sent Jesus to bear our sins upon the cross.
May we remember Your love, unchanging and eternal. As we journey through life, may we seek your face, knowing that your grace is our refuge.
We pray in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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