Today's reading: Nahum 1, 2, 3; John 5
S) "6 Who can stand before His indignation?
Who can endure the burning of His anger?S) "6 Who can stand before His indignation?
His wrath is poured out like fire
And the rocks are broken up by Him."
O) The remarkable thing (I guess there are lots), when reading the Old Testament, is to read about the wrath of God. The execution, or even the concept, is lost on many of God's children today. Reading through the actions God carried out of His anger, can be confusing or discouraging. The most important thing to remember in reading these difficult elements of God's character, has to be remembering God's justice. He had every right to act in His indignation, because He is holy, and people are sinful. If the wages of sin is death (which it is, see Romans 6:23).
A) Recently, our counseling pastor preached on Jesus's experience in the garden of Gethsemane. The most compelling idea he brought forth, was the fact that Jesus wasn't simply facing mocking, or scourging, or even death on a cross; He was facing the full wrath of God. So, in answer to the question Nahum posed, (which was rhetorical, I'm sure), the answer is Jesus alone. This draws me to humble thanksgiving, knowing that only He could face that righteous wrath, and so He did, so I didn't have to face it myself.
Nahum 1:6 (NASB)
O) The remarkable thing (I guess there are lots), when reading the Old Testament, is to read about the wrath of God. The execution, or even the concept, is lost on many of God's children today. Reading through the actions God carried out of His anger, can be confusing or discouraging. The most important thing to remember in reading these difficult elements of God's character, has to be remembering God's justice. He had every right to act in His indignation, because He is holy, and people are sinful. If the wages of sin is death (which it is, see Romans 6:23).
A) Recently, our counseling pastor preached on Jesus's experience in the garden of Gethsemane. The most compelling idea he brought forth, was the fact that Jesus wasn't simply facing mocking, or scourging, or even death on a cross; He was facing the full wrath of God. So, in answer to the question Nahum posed, (which was rhetorical, I'm sure), the answer is Jesus alone. This draws me to humble thanksgiving, knowing that only He could face that righteous wrath, and so He did, so I didn't have to face it myself.
P) Father, I confess that You are totally justified in Your righteous indignation and holy wrath. I am humbled at the thought, the realization, that Your Son took that head-on. When I consider His sacrifice, taking the punishment that was ruled for my sins, help me to remember to think past the cross, even. Remind me that it was the full weight of Your wrath, that He faced. Help me to fully respect that, by fully revering Your justified anger. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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