It is far too easy to jump to the wrong conclusions as we look at our own situation and the situation of others. Like Job’s friends, we need to be careful of drawing the conclusion only good things happen to good people and bad things happen to bad people. Perhaps the “why” of some circumstances may never be answered, but we must guard against drawing wrong conclusions while still recognizing an ongoing need.
As the time drew near for Israel to enter the promised land, they needed to be reminded they were not receiving such a gift because they were so good. (Deuteronomy 9:4-5) They were reminded how rebellious and stubborn they had been. (Deuteronomy 9:6-7) In actuality, it was by God’s graciousness they were receiving their inheritance. God was driving out the other nations “because of the wickedness of these nations”. (Deuteronomy 9:5) The nation of Israel needed to continually bear in mind their need for repentance, while at the same time acknowledging the grace of God toward them.
Even the disciples jumped to the wrong conclusion when they observed a man who had been born blind. (John 9:1-2) They thought sin was the cause. However, Jesus made it clear that was not the reason, but that “the works of God might be displayed in him.” (John 9:3)
On another occasion some people told Jesus about Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. (Luke 13:1) Jesus responded by steering away from drawing the wrong conclusion while pointing to the need that remains for us all.
We read. . .
“(2) And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? (3) No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. (4) Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them: do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others who lived in Jerusalem? (5) No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”” (Luke 13:2-5 ESV)
Simply because such things happen does not mean those to whom they happen are necessarily any worse than those (including ourselves) to whom they did not happen. However, the necessity of a penitent spirit remains the need. We are blessed not because of our own goodness, but because of the goodness of God to extend His grace. Praise God He does not treat us as our sins truly deserve. (note Psalm 103:10) We should always be thankful for His great compassion and mercy toward us. It is the penitent heart continually turning back toward God and His Will that finds the blessed grace by which our sins — that would otherwise separate us from Him — are forgiven. May we humbly acknowledge our short comings and repent of our sins as we praise God for His amazing grace!
Have a great day ACKNOWLEDGING ONLY BY GRACE ARE WE SO BLESSED!
Carl
