When we fail to behave as a child of God, do we face condemnation?
Of course not. We may face the consequences of our actions, but we will be met by God with truth and grace.
Take Adam and Eve, for example. They had ONE rule and they broke it. God called them out (literally), listened to them blame others, and laid out the consequences for their misbehavior.
Because of their disobedience, they were banished from Eden. It seems harsh at first. To make one mistake and be banished from the only home you’ve known. However, we are told this was to protect them from living forever in their sin-ridden state (Genesis 3:22). Banishment from Eden was an act of mercy. God could have ended their lives right then. He had warned them that they would die if they ate from the tree and God’s Word is truth. But He loved them and gave them a chance to continue their life on earth, just not in Eden and not for eternity.
THEN He clothed them, mentally prepared them for their future, equipped them for the labor they would face, and sent them on their way. AND HE WENT WITH THEM.
God, in His infinite mercy, did not send them away and leave them on their own. Chapter four tells us that He still spoke with them, He blessed them, and the people were still able to call on Him.
People kept messing up, but God kept showing up with truth and grace throughout scripture. Fast forward about two thousand years and we see His redemptive plan come to fruition when Jesus Christ comes on the scene.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him would not perish but have eternal life.
Once again, God provided a way to undo the death sentence proclaimed by Adam and Eve’s disobedience. Death is overcome and eternal life is promised to all who turn to Jesus.
God still meets us with truth, mercy, and grace today. He always will because He doesn’t change. He is our solid rock, our foundation, and we can rely on that truth no matter what circumstances we face.
The next time we mess up, let’s quickly turn to God and face the truth of our actions, accept any consequences of those actions, and be thankful and accepting of the grace God shows us. He is still the redeemer, not just of our eternal salvation, but for every part of our lives on earth. He will redeem our circumstances and lead us forward into blessings. Our job is simply to follow and accept His leadership.
Next week, we’ll discuss practical applications for how we can meet the world with truth and grace.
May God’s example spark life lived as His redeemed children.