The LORD is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation (Numbers 14:18).
Being acquainted with the murmuring and complaining Israelites we see in the book of Numbers leads to the inevitable conclusion that is the first eight words of this passage. The demonstration of God’s longsuffering and mercy Moses reveals to us in this portion of Scripture surely ought to bless our lives.
What if God were not longsuffering? So powerful is that demonstration that some seem moved totally to neglect another of God’s revealed attributes that has to do with punishing the disobedient. Careful study of Scripture reveals that God did punish these disobedient ones by not allowing them to enter the Promised Land. Thankfully, our God is perfectly just.
The book Meditations Of My Heart (from which this daily devotional is taken) is available / can be ordered from Sain Publications (931-363-6905 or email psain@sainpublications.com).