5.2 God is Slow to Anger
Patience and Grace as Expressions of Divine Love

Look at the Story of Jonah and Reflect on His Reaction to God’s Merciful Forgiveness for the Ninevites (Jonah 4:1–4). What Does This Tell Us About Jonah and About God? (See also Matt 10:8)

The story of Jonah and God’s mercy toward the Ninevites powerfully illustrates the depth of God’s grace and patience—and also how challenging it can be for us humans to comprehend and extend this grace ourselves. Jonah’s reaction reveals two central lessons for our faith and life.

First, Jonah’s behavior exposes his hard-heartedness and lack of willingness to grant others the grace he himself received from God. Jonah hated the Assyrians so much that he wanted to see them condemned for their sins instead of rejoicing over their repentance and God’s forgiveness. This attitude serves as a warning to us: Those who receive grace from God should also be willing to extend that grace to others—regardless of how much we feel they “deserve” it or not. God’s mercy is unmerited, and this applies equally to all people.

Second, Jonah’s reaction highlights the central role of God’s mercy and patience in His nature. Jonah knew that God is “gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in love” (Jonah 4:2), and therefore God hesitated to punish the Ninevites even though their sins were evident. The Hebrew expression “slow to anger,” which can metaphorically be translated as “slow-minded,” shows that God’s patience and long-suffering far exceed human measures. While humans often become angry quickly, God takes His time, provides room for repentance, and consistently displays His inexhaustible grace.

However, God’s patience does not mean He ignores sin or tolerates injustice. Instead, He offers reconciliation through the cross, where justice and mercy come together. God has created a way in which He remains just while also being the justifier of those who believe in Him (Romans 3:25-26). The cross demonstrates how God’s justice and love work harmoniously: He judges evil but simultaneously offers grace and forgiveness.

For our lives, this means that we should not only receive God’s patience and grace but also reflect them. We are called to be patient with others, even when they have wronged us, and to live out God’s unmerited grace in our relationships. Jonah’s failure can remind us to keep our hearts from becoming hard and to learn how God forgives—not because it is easy, but because it is the path He has modeled for us. God’s patience is not only a comfort but also a call to make His mercy visible in our own lives.

Have you ever been angry with someone who has wronged you? How can this feeling help you better understand God’s wrath over evil? How can we show mercy and grace without letting sin run rampant or allowing abuse or oppression?

This is a difficult but honest question that each of us must reflect on: Have we ever withheld mercy or grace from someone who has wronged us? Often, we react out of pain, pride, or the desire to seek justice. However, these moments remind us how often God has shown us grace despite our faults.

How We Can Remember God’s Grace To be more lenient with others, it is helpful to consciously reflect on what God has done for us. Here are some practical approaches:

1. Maintain Gratitude: When we regularly remember God’s forgiveness in our lives, such as through prayer or Bible reading, it becomes easier to extend this grace to others. A Bible verse like Romans 5:8 (“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us”) can serve as an anchor.

2. View Forgiveness as a Decision: Forgiveness does not mean forgetting or excusing wrongdoing. It is a conscious decision to let go of others and leave ultimate justice to God.

3. Study Jesus’ Example: In moments of struggle, we can remember how Jesus prayed for His enemies while on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). His love for us despite our sin shows us the way.

4. Combine Justice with Forgiveness: True grace promotes repentance. It shows others the possibility of a new path instead of seeking revenge.

Living a Life of Grace By reflecting on God’s grace in our lives, we realize that forgiveness and mercy do not depend on our own strength. It is God who empowers us to rise above our pain and show love, even when it is difficult. At the same time, we can be assured that mercy never means promoting sin or allowing abuse or oppression but always serves to bring healing and restoration—in ourselves and in others.

These divine attributes are not only a model but also a challenge for how we handle injustice, conflicts, and others’ faults.

Patience and Mercy in Our Daily Lives

1. Learning to Forgive:

   In daily life, we repeatedly encounter situations where we are wronged—whether in family, friendships, or professional settings. God’s patience with the Ninevites reminds us that we are called to refrain from quick judgment or angry reactions and instead practice forgiveness and leniency. However, this forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but a conscious decision that shows we carry God’s love within us.

2. Practicing Long-Suffering:

   The phrase “slow to anger” demonstrates the importance of not reacting impulsively to difficult situations. Instead of acting out of anger, we can pause, pray, and seek God’s wisdom. This prevents us from worsening the situation through our reactions and shows others God’s character through our actions.

3. Being Compassionate Toward Others:

   Jonah’s story warns us not to harden our hearts, even toward those who have wronged us. God invites us to adopt the perspective of His overflowing grace, which He continually bestows upon us. Thus, we can respond with compassion and humility in our daily interactions, even when it is challenging.

Our Faith in Light of God’s Grace

1. Gratitude for God’s Patience:

   When we reflect on God’s patience and grace, we recognize how often He has shown us love and forgiveness despite our faults. This realization strengthens our faith and encourages us to trust Him, even in moments of failure.

2. Living a Life of Grace:

   By embracing God’s grace in our faith life, we can become a model for others. Our responses to conflicts and challenges can serve as a living testimony of how faith has transformed us.

3. Balancing Mercy and Justice:

   God’s patience also teaches us that mercy does not equate to tolerating sin. We can engage others with love while upholding truth and justice. It’s about finding a balance—showing grace while also promoting responsibility and repentance.

Practical Application

• Reflection:

  We should regularly reflect on God’s grace in our lives. Gratitude for what God has forgiven us transforms our attitude toward others.

• Prayer:

  In moments of anger, we can pray for the patience and wisdom needed to respond like God.

• Action:

  We can consciously take steps to show grace and mercy in our relationships, whether through forgiveness, a loving conversation, or the willingness to welcome someone back.

Summary

The connection between God’s patience and our daily lives lies in the challenge to live His example: slow to anger, rich in mercy, and ready to extend grace. These qualities are the foundation for a faith life that honors God and inspires others. We are invited to reflect these divine attributes in our relationships with others while maintaining a balance between grace and justice. God’s patience is not a sign of weakness but an expression of His infinite love—it gives us the opportunity for repentance and shows us how to respond to others with grace.

God’s patience is not a contradiction to His love but an expression of it—He combats evil to protect what He loves.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-5-the-wrath-of-divine-love-5-2-god-is-slow-to-anger-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 27, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Colossians Chapter 3

¹ If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

² Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

³ For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

⁴ When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

⁵ Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

⁶ For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:

⁷ In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.

⁸ But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.

⁹ Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;

¹⁰ And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

¹¹ Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.

¹² Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

¹³ Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

¹⁴ And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

¹⁵ And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

¹⁶ Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

¹⁷ And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

¹⁸ Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

¹⁹ Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.

²⁰ Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.

²¹ Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

²² Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God;

²³ And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

²⁴ Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

²⁵ But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

Introduction

Colossians Chapter 3 is a call to believers to fully renew their lives in Christ. It centers on the contrast between the “old self,” characterized by sinful desires and worldly thinking, and the “new self,” fashioned in the image of Christ. Paul admonishes believers to turn away from earthly things and to strive for what is “above.” He provides practical instructions on living in love, forgiveness, and gratitude, and outlines a Christian household order based on mutual respect and reverence for God. This chapter invites an inner transformation made possible through Christ.

Commentary

In this chapter, Paul presents a clear challenge to the believers: they are to put off their “old self” and put on the “new self,” which is being renewed in Christ. The metaphorical language emphasizes that spiritual change is not merely superficial but involves a complete renewal of character and lifestyle. The exhortation to “seek what is above” directs focus toward eternal values and the glory of Christ, rather than being distracted by worldly desires and fleeting goals.

Particularly striking is the list of things believers are to put away: anger, malice, slander, and other sins that destroy interpersonal relationships. These negative traits are to be replaced with positive virtues such as mercy, kindness, humility, and patience. This highlights that the transformation into the “new self” is not passive but requires a conscious decision and active effort.

The central role of love is emphasized, as it is “the bond of perfection.” Love is the foundation for harmonious living, whether in the church, family, or society. Paul stresses that love is the key to peace and gratitude, which should govern the hearts of believers. The peace of God, which is mediated through Christ, is presented as the standard for decisions and the basis for relationships.

A notable part of the chapter is the Christian household code, where Paul provides specific instructions for spouses, children, fathers, and servants. These instructions are based on mutual responsibility and reverence for God, demonstrating that the Christian life affects not only personal faith but also social and familial relationships. The exhortation to “do everything wholeheartedly, as if working for the Lord and not for people” underscores the importance of inner attitude. It is a call to perform all activities—whether spiritual or everyday—with a heart of gratitude and service to God.

Overall, the chapter offers comprehensive guidance for a life oriented toward Christ. It combines theological principles with practical applications, illustrating how faith should shape personal life and community interactions.

Summary

Colossians Chapter 3 calls believers to renew their lives in Christ by putting off the “old self” with its sinful actions and putting on the “new self,” which is created in the image of Christ. Paul urges them to rid themselves of earthly desires and to seek the things that are “above,” where Christ reigns. He emphasizes the importance of love, forgiveness, and peace as the foundation of a Christian life. Additionally, he provides practical instructions for relationships within the family and social environment, focusing on mutual respect and reverence for God. The chapter concludes with an exhortation to do everything wholeheartedly for the Lord and to remain thankful. It serves as a powerful guide for living a life that glorifies Christ.

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 2—The Sinner’s Need of Christ
Read online here

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 2 vividly describes the state of humanity after the fall of man. It shows how humanity was separated from God and, in its weakness, incapable of freeing itself from the bondage of sin. Through disobedience, the originally noble capabilities of humans were corrupted, and selfishness replaced love. In this state, the dependence of humans on God’s grace and the necessity of redemption through Christ are emphasized. The chapter makes it clear that only through Christ is the restoration of the connection with God possible, as He is the sole mediator between heaven and earth.

Commentary

This chapter presents the profound truth that humanity is lost without divine intervention. The original state of man, characterized by holiness, love, and fellowship with God, was radically altered by the fall of man. Humanity lost its spiritual strength and became a prisoner of sin and Satan. This estrangement from God not only led to a lack of joy in holiness but also to a departure from fellowship with God. The idea that a sinner could not experience joy even in heaven, as their inclinations and motives are entirely opposed to heavenly ones, is particularly striking. This illustrates that redemption is not merely a legal act but an inner transformation of the heart.

A central element of the chapter is the recognition that humans, by their own power, are unable to escape sin. Education, moral efforts, or external rituals cannot change the heart. This highlights the absolute necessity of God’s intervention through Christ. The description of Christ serving as the mediator between heaven and earth, bridging the gap caused by sin, is a powerful metaphorical depiction of the work of redemption. This connection is restored through Christ, who links fallen humanity with the source of divine power.

Another significant point is the notion that all human efforts toward progress or moral refinement are futile without Christ. Humans can only achieve true holiness and fellowship with God through His grace. The section also demonstrates God’s love, manifested in the sacrifice of His Son. This love is stronger than death and reveals the highest price that God was willing to pay to redeem humanity.

Finally, the chapter earnestly appeals to the reader not to disregard God’s redemptive grace. It calls for the recognition of God’s patience and efforts to restore fallen humanity. The idea that stronger measures than the sacrifice of Jesus could not have been employed underscores the urgency and depth of divine love. The chapter urges believers to reciprocate this love, surrender their lives to Christ, and accept the offered fellowship with God.

Summary

Chapter 2 describes the lost state of humanity after the fall of man and its complete dependence on God’s grace for redemption. Humanity, which originally lived in holiness and fellowship with God, became estranged through sin and unable to free itself. The gap between God and man could only be bridged by Christ, the mediator, who restores the connection between heaven and earth and offers new life to humanity. The chapter emphasizes the necessity of an inner transformation through Christ’s grace and showcases the infinite love of God, revealed in the sacrifice of His Son. It calls the reader to accept this grace and fully surrender to God in order to receive the gift of redemption and return to fellowship with Him.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/27-01-2025-colossians-chapter-3-believe-his-prophets/