November 1, 2008

Saved from Wrath

“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.” (Romans 5:8-9 NKJV)

The wrath of God is like great waters that are dammed for the present. They increase more and more and rise higher and higher until an outlet is given. The longer the stream is stopped the more rapid and mighty is its course when once lose—Jonathan Edwards.

Unbelievers cannot comprehend the wrath of God. They know it is there, but they cannot give it its due. Consequently, they cannot appreciate His love not being saved from His wrath.

However, this is not the case for His children. Believers are keenly aware of their deliverance from the penalty of sin. The wages of sin is death. Death is not just slipping into an unconscious state of annihilation, but everlasting torment in hell. While this is just a way of describing what is to come upon the lost for there is nothing to compare to heaven or hell. God uses what we know and see to explain the unexplainable. However, these descriptions are sufficient to cause His children bow low before His great mercy.

Why has one person been spared and another not? That is God’s sovereign choice, but believers can be sure no one who has truly called upon the Lord has been forsaken. Believers also know, however, that no one calls without the Lord’s grace.

This understanding causes this writer to be humbled knowing that without His grace hell was his destiny. Praise God for His love, and what great love it was. He gave His own Son to suffer and die in our stead.

This should cause believers to walk carefully and care immensely. Fully appreciating the wrath and love of God makes a believer cherish his calling. In addition, knowing what awaits those who are without moves believers with compassion.

Have you thought about the love of God lately? See it juxtaposed the wrath of God and you will likely gain a new appreciation for both.