Resenting God’s Goodness

Can I be honest? Today’s devotion is a tough one. It’s hard to understand why God would offer forgiveness to those who have deeply wronged us. But we must always remember that we serve a God who is radical in his grace and mercy, who often upends what we perceive as fairness.

I’m certain that Christ was aware that his listeners did not welcome the command in Matthew 5:44. It challenges us to put God’s desires above our own in everything. When God forgives those who have offended us, he compels us to confront our emotions and unearth our resentment.

Romans 12:19 tells us to leave justice to God. We might think, Yes! Go get them, God! But what if your enemies ask forgiveness and God grants their prayer to be washed clean instead? We have no problem welcoming this forgiveness for ourselves, but somehow, we find it difficult to extend that same forgiveness to those who have wronged us. God extends his forgiveness to all who genuinely seek it, including those who commit unthinkable acts. No one is exempt from God’s extravagant grace, like it or not.

This reminds me of when God forgave Jonah for running away, but then Jonah was irritated with the Lord for extending mercy to the Ninevites. Anger at wrongdoers is natural, but who are we to decide whom God forgives? The question is not, “Is it fair?” Instead, ask, “Was the mercy extended to us fair?” The answer will always be no; grace and mercy are not fair. That’s what makes them so amazingly humbling. God’s choice not to punish us reveals his goodness.

God calls us to see the world from his supernatural perspective. If we don’t, we cannot pray for our enemies or share the gospel in the darkest of places. Remember that he longs to use us to reach every corner of the world.

Father, I accept the beauty of your love, grace, and restorative power toward all your children. I release the burden of unforgiveness and choose to forgive. Lord, help me to pray for my enemies. Give me the desire to see them free and whole, just as you desire for all those you love. Amen.

If it were not for forgiveness, I would be utterly lost in my sin. I praise God for his amazing grace toward me.