The fifth marvel of mercy is that God would be willing to be so longsuffering. It is fitting that this marvel is discussed last because the longsuffering of God is perhaps the greatest marvel of all (Matthew 23:37; 1 Peter 3:20). That is what Peter was speaking of when he said that God is “longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). Because the Lord overflows with longsuffering and patience, we are to show forbearance to one another (Psalm 86:15; Ephesians 4:1-2). It is very important to remember that grace belongs to God and we can obey at any time. However, the danger involved is that we do not know how long we will have the opportunity (Job 7:7; Psalm 39:5; 144:4). Every adult has learned the bitter lesson that anything can happen.
God has blessed us with so many marvels of mercy (Micah 7:18-19). Will you deny them? With all that is stacked in your favor, will you refuse to obey the gospel? Will you fall away from God after you have had so many wonderful blessings? Will you insult the Spirit of grace (Hebrews 10:29)? Eternal life is yours if you are willing to accept the mercy of God. Jude said, “But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life” (vv. 20-21).
The better we understand God’s mercy, the better we can understand our place in the world, and in God’s scheme of redemption. Grace and truth have come through Jesus Christ (John 1:17), but so does judgment (Acts 17:31). If you would like to know more about how to claim God’s gracious and merciful gift, please contact us for further study.
Kyle Campbell
