In
the history of Israel, we read a great deal about the history of human
sin. First and foremost, however, it is the story of God's grace and
mercy. Israel's sin is there in the forefront: "We are slaves today ...
Because of our sins ... We are in great distress" (Nehemiah 9:36-37).
Even more significant is the God of grace and mercy: "But in Your great
mercy You did not put an end to them or abandon them, for You are a
gracious and a merciful God" (Nehemiah 9:31). The God of grace and mercy
is "King of kings and Lord of lords" (Revelation 19:16). He reigns in
grace and mercy. This is not to suggest that there is no judgment.
There will be judgment. People from all walks of life come under the
divine judgment (Revelation 19:18). There is, however, a way of
escaping judgment. It is the way of coming to the Saviour: "Come,
gather together for the great supper of God" (Revelation 19:17). When
the redeemed of the Lord are gathered together for the great supper of
God, it will be perfectly clear that "His Name alone is exalted: His
splendour is above the earth and the heavens" (Psalm 148:13).
What God did for His people, Israel, was very great. There is a striking contrast between their slavery in Egypt and their abundance in the promised land. God had multiplied His blessing upon them, just as Jesus did when He turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). If the blessing is to be maintained and increased, we must honour the Lord. We must cry to Him for blessing: "Hear my prayer, O God, listen to the words of my mouth." We must call upon Him with faith: "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the One who sustains me" (Psalm 54:2,4).
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