A restored relationship

Wednesday April 7, 2021

A restored relationship

Manasseh was twelve years old when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty-five years in Jerusalem. He did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord […] Then the Lord brought against them the captains of the army of the king of Assyria […] When he was in trouble, he cried out to the Lord , his God, and he humbled himself deeply before the God of his fathers. 2 Chronicles 33.1-2, 11-12

As a young king, Manasseh "did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord," and caused his people to sin. He built altars for the Baals, practiced divination, magic and witchcraft, and consulted mediums (2 Chronicles 33.3-7). So why did God allow such a man to lead his people for fifty-five years ?

Perhaps the answer lies at the end of his life. Manasseh indeed examined his life, repented and "humbled himself deeply". His relationship with God was restored. As a result, Manasseh sought to repair the damage caused by his mistakes. God wanted to show how patient he is when it comes to extending his compassion, forgiveness, grace, and mercy, and how much he cares about us as individuals.

"No matter what you've done, God loves you."

Remember today that God loves you as you are. If you confess your sins and turn to him, he will forgive you and restore fellowship between you. No matter what you've done, God loves you. Like a loving father, he desires fellowship with you ; he wants to forgive you, to purify you, and to provide whatever you need.

God wants you to show mercy to others as well, even to those who seem to be full of wickedness. Remember that he "desires that all men be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:4). He loves every sinner, and wants you to help bring them to repentance, even though it may take a lifetime.

A prayer for today

Father, I confess my sins to you. Thank you for being merciful to me. Help me to exercise the same mercy towards others and bring them to salvation. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

John Roos

Source (The Thought of the Day)