Romans 2:4
Many people misunderstand the goodness of God towards the wicked. They don’t understand the entire reason for it is to lead them to repentance.
Men should see the goodness of God and understand:
· God has been better to them than they deserve.
· God has shown them kindness when they have ignored Him.
· God has shown them kindness when they have mocked Him.
· God is not a cruel master and they may safely surrender to Him.
· God is perfectly willing to forgive them.
· God should be served out of simple gratitude.
Are you waiting for God to drive you to repentance? He doesn’t work like that; God leads you to repentance. “Notice, dear friends, that the Lord does not drive you to repentance. Cain was driven away, as a fugitive and a vagabond, when he had killed his righteous brother Abel; Judas went and hanged himself, being driven by an anguish of remorse because of what he had done in betraying his Lord; but the sweetest and best repentance is that which comes, not by driving, but by drawing: ‘The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.’” (Spurgeon)
“In the New Testament, repentance is not simply negative. It means turning to a new life in Christ, a life of active service to God. It should not be confused with remorse, which is a deep sorrow for sin but lacks the positive note in repentance.” (Morris)
Prayer: O Lord, You created us and You love us. You are incredibly patient with us, not wanting anyone to perish but all to come to eternal life through Your Son Jesus Christ. Thank you for Your kindness that leads us to repentance. May we be aware of that kindness every day and rest in You as we turn our hearts and mind back to you in repentance and trust. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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