Jesus came to reveal God to us. When we see Jesus, we see God. Where do we see Jesus? In the Gospels.

24 A person’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand their own way? It’s a matter of choice. When we need to understand in order to make a choice, then we act on our own understanding, but when we trust the LORD and His wisdom, then we gain understanding as we go.

On the 18th, we finished up a study of Romans 12:9-21 in which we saw the heart of God displayed in practical form. We learned:

• Our love must be sincere;
• Hate evil and cling to what is good;
• Love others above ourselves;
• “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer”;
• Practice hospitality and share with our fellow brothers and sisters in need;
• Bless those persecute us;
• “Rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn”;
• Live in harmony with others and associate with all positions;
• Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but do what is right;
• Do not take revenge–on the contrary, feed our enemy and give him drink;
• “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

Each of these commands indicates a loving God who is more concerned with saving lost and wayward children than with doling out punishment. In the NIV, verse 19 says, “leave room for God’s wrath.” I looked up the word, “wrath,” and it had this meaning: “‘orge’ – Indignation, a swelling of settled indignation, passionate feelings against something or someone.” After reviewing the heart of God, I believe that this “wrath” is against sin and against Satan. Jesus said,

³¹ Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out. ³² And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” John 12:33-34m

Here is the REAL enemy to mankind: Sin and Satan. Jesus did, indeed, die for our sins in order to have us back. He did not treat us as our sins deserved, but gave us mercy, instead. Jesus forgave us!

If we want to know the heart of our good God, we will feed and give drink to whoever we consider to be our enemy. We will forget about fairness and justice, and leave them in God’s hands. When we do what He prompts us to do, we will overcome evil with good. He is all about restoration, both ours and the world’s.

Abba, thank You for restoring me to a place of sonship in Your family, along with all Your children. I know that You want everyone to receive Your gift of adoption; may we help people to realize such a great gift! Amen.