I'm not sure why, but at times for most of my life I've had seasons where I have struggled to embrace joy in my life. I have a life filled with blessings there is not question about that. Fall contains, well in reality September sometimes causes painful memories to resurface in my mind. I recently was reminded of God's compassion in a fresh new way, and I giggled at the timing. My brother's dog Macy dives regularly in my lap to give me love and affection, She is a sweet slightly over sized Golden Retriever! She is tender, gentle, playful, and sometimes gets in a bit of trouble. She is loyal, affectionate, and I'm convinced she adores me, and I'm not the least bit humble about it. It is kind of sad that if she comes to me, I often stop whatever I am doing, and fix my eyes on her! I do fuss at her when she does things she should not do, but I love her dearly. Her adorable brown eyes capture me in an instant. I love her more than I ever expected to! She listens better than some people do! I would not dream of neglecting her much less, refusing her love and affection. It occurs to me that I am willing to receive and give such love to one of God's creature's how much more should I be willing to accept and offer love to the God who freely loves me? I don't ask Macy why she loves me, partly because she can't answer me, but also because I'm simply enjoying her love and compassionate nature. What if I approached and received God's love and compassion in a similar way? Before you dare to think, that I'm comparing a lowly creature with God I'm not. I know that God is strong, powerful, just, and King Of Kings and Lord of Lords. I also know it is very easy for me to discount or overlook God's compassion towards me. That is until I came across Isa. 30:18 which has given me joy repeatedly in recent days! "
Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you;
therefore he will rise up to show you compassion.
For the Lord is a God of justice.
Blessed are all who wait for him!" Isa. 30:18 NIV
"You gave me life and faithful love,
and Your care has guarded my life" HCSB Job 10:12
Do you tend to lean toward one of God's character traits over others? What helps you stay balanced? What helps you to remember that God is both just and compassionate in his nature? Do you celebrate one, but shy away from the other? If so I understand your struggle as it is mine as well. I want to have a more balanced view of God, and for now, he is using one of his beloved creations to help me do just that! God has and is the perfect balance!
