The Transformative Grace Of Psalm 86:5 Series

The Transformative Grace of Psalm 86:5

Introduction:

Today, we turn our hearts to the profound words of Psalm 86:5, a verse that encapsulates the transformative grace of our Lord. In a world often marked by uncertainty, the unchanging nature of God's grace remains a foundation for our lives.

Point 1: A God Full of Compassion

Psalm 86:5 (NLT) "O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help."

The psalmist's plea reveals a deep understanding of God's character. The Lord is described as "so good" — a goodness that extends beyond human comprehension. His readiness to forgive demonstrates a compassionate nature, and His unfailing love is a wellspring available to all who seek His help.

As A.W. Tozer expressed, "What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us."

Psalm 103:8 (NLT) "The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love."

In this verse, the psalmist beautifully articulates the nature of our Lord. It begins with the proclamation that the Lord is "compassionate." This compassion is not a fleeting emotion but a deep, abiding concern for His creation. The Lord's mercy follows closely, indicating His willingness to withhold the punishment we deserve.

The phrase "slow to get angry" speaks of God's patience. His anger is not impulsive or quick; rather, it's measured and deliberate. This patience reflects His desire for repentance and reconciliation rather than immediate judgment.

The verse concludes by highlighting a defining attribute of God—His unfailing love. This love is not subject to conditions or limitations. It's a love that persists despite our shortcomings and failures, demonstrating the constancy of God's commitment to His people.

In contemplating God's unfailing love, C.S. Lewis offers profound insights, "Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not."

Psalm 103:8 invites us to reflect on the character of God. As we consider His compassion, mercy, patience, and unfailing love, we are drawn into a deeper understanding of our relationship with Him. It prompts us to approach God with confidence, knowing that His love is steadfast and His mercy is readily available.

In response to this revelation of God's character, let us cultivate compassion and mercy in our own lives. As recipients of His unfailing love, we are called to extend that love to others. In moments of frustration or anger, may we emulate the patience of our Heavenly Father, allowing His transformative love to flow through us.

Psalm 103:8 unveils a portrait of a compassionate, merciful, patient, and loving God. As we meditate on these attributes, may they shape our interactions with others and deepen our gratitude for the boundless love God lavishes upon us.

Point 2: Seeking God's Transformative Forgiveness

Psalm 86:5 (NLT) "O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help."

God's readiness to forgive is highlighted here. It's not merely a passive attribute but an active expression of His love. The transformative power of forgiveness is available to all who humbly seek His help.

Reflecting on forgiveness, Corrie Ten Boom remarked, "Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart."

Isaiah 1:18 (NLT) "Come now, let’s settle this. Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool."

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah invites the people to reason and settle their relationship with God. The metaphorical language employed vividly portrays the transformative power of God's forgiveness. The mention of sins being "like scarlet" and "red like crimson" illustrates the deep stain and guilt associated with wrongdoing.

The promise, however, is one of profound transformation. Despite the deep-seated nature of sin, God offers cleansing and purification. The imagery of turning scarlet sins into white as snow and crimson sins into white as wool signifies not only forgiveness but a complete and thorough removal of sin's defilement.

Reflecting on God's transformative forgiveness, Charles Spurgeon shares, "God has a cast into the depths of the sea all the sins of His people."

Isaiah 1:18 calls us to approach God with a repentant heart, acknowledging our sins. It assures us that God's forgiveness is not only pardoning but also purifying. The promise extends beyond forgiveness, offering a renewed and cleansed relationship with God.

As recipients of God's transformative forgiveness, let us respond with gratitude and obedience. The call to settle the matter with God implies an active engagement in turning away from sin and embracing His offer of reconciliation. May our lives reflect the purity and whiteness that come from the forgiveness offered through Christ.