From Parenting with Wisdom, page 54

God, in love to our souls, pities we who are His children and remembers that we are but dust and frail. He is quick to show mercy to those who fear Him and love Him. David tells us, “He has not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities” (Psalms 103:10-14). As we become aware of God’s love and mercy, we respond with devotion, gratitude, and praise to Him. It is because of His mercy that we are not consumed because His compassions fail not (Lamentations 3:22023). God forgives childish infractions and overlooks immaturity. He weighs our actions, considers our weaknesses, and adjusts His response in proportion to our abilities, attitude, and understanding. If He were mark every sin we committed in a day, we would not be able to function. We would be overwhelmed with sorrow and discouragement. Rather, God deals with His children individually according to His plan and causes us to grow in grace while He progressively moves us toward maturity. He forgives us, David declares, rather than marking every failure.

When I was a beginning teacher, I thought it was my responsibility to mark (in red pen) every single error in the English papers I graded. I learned how discouraging it was, and once eager students became reluctant to turn in their work. I found much more success when I limited my criticism to what they could manage, and tempered my critique with praise. In response, my students became much more enthusiastic. I am so thankful that God is merciful in how and when he reveals areas of needed growth. I can improve in modeling this same mercy to my children.

P.S. I’ll be going camping this weekend. Our whole church goes up to the mountains and has the Sunday service at a campsite after a big potluck. Have a great weekend!

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• God’s Mercy to Me, a Lawbreaker
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• Why Not Repent?

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