Proverbs chapter 16 verses 6-7 (NIV)
Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;
through the fear of the LORD evil is avoided. When the LORD takes pleasure in anyone’s way,
he causes their enemies to make peace with them.
These two verses caught my attention. Verse 6 tells us that through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for. Paul would later confirm this in Romans chapter 5 verse 8 when he wrote, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Conversely, David sinned but his love and heart for God meant true repentance as opposed to Saul, and the attitude of some of the kings who came after David. It’s a reminder to us how much God loves us and thus how we must show our love to Him.
Secondly, the idea that when the LORD takes pleasure in our obedience walking His way, He causes our enemies to make peace with us. I think it means that if we are walking wholeheartedly with God, we may still face trials but nothing will knock us from that path. How can that then not have an impact on those around us – even those who disagree with us? What an impact God’s love and our obedience would make to those around us.
Dear Lord,
Thank You that whilst I was still a sinner, Christ died for me. Such love. Let them my obedience bring You pleasure and have an impact on those around me. I pray in Jesus’ Name. Amen.