Goodness That Leads to Repentance

Today we sung a song in church which reminded me it is God's goodness which leads to repentance.  Paul held forth this truth in Romans 2:4:  "Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?"  God's lovingkindnesses are many, and it is due to His mercy which has stayed His hand from justly destroying men for their sin instantly.  Whilst it could be truly sin we should "Repent or else!" with knowledge of God's judgment, God does not threaten us with pain or torment should we refuse His righteous demands.  It is not the fear of God's wrath but the kindness and goodness of God which moves us to repent.

For many Christians, it may have been fear of death and hell which caused us to trust in Jesus - more than the goodness and kindness of God toward us.  Like Bob Sjogren and Gerald Robison conveyed in the book Cat & Dog Theology, our posture towards God is important.  There are people who came to God because they were backing wide-eyed away from the abyss of hell, and those who have turned towards God because He is a glorious God and a worthy Saviour.  It is a awesome day when we learn to fix our eyes primarily upon Jesus rather than turn to Him as a last resort.  If we are in the habit of backing away from troubles and not looking where we are going, we will ultimately trip over and have no sense of direction.  It is the love and trust of Jesus - not the fear of hell - which should move us to repentance and do what is right.

Even faithful dogs can have curious moments, like when they wander out of the back yard.  Concerned for the safety of the animal, a caring owner will pursue their pet.  Many times I have witnessed dogs who know full well their owners who are trying to coax them to return to the yard, but the dog is more interested in sniffing everything in sight, happy to stay just out of reach.  God is like a loving Shepherd who pursues His sheep, not threatening us with hell to make us return.  It is His kindness and patient pursuit which leads to our repentance, and He is kind and gracious even when we have been stubborn and foolish.  If we are more moved by the fear of punishment than the love of God for us, it seems we need a change of perspective which aligns with Romans 2:4!

We have been greatly enriched by God's goodness, forbearance, and patience which suffers long.  Let us be patient with others as He has been patient with us.  May we also do good in God's sight, realising and walking in kindness and mercy God has freely bestowed upon us.  God, forgive me when I have repented to save my own skin and thought little of your goodness and grace!