When I was a child, I would get snarky with my parents. It usually started because I wanted them to do something for me, and they were taking their time. The longer I had to wait, the more demanding I got. Inevitably, I would reach a point where my Mom would tell me, “Don’t go there!” It was then I knew I had crossed a line; I was in trouble. Fortunately, my parents were always gracious to me and didn’t give in to my demands.
Isaiah 30:18
“Therefore the Lord is waiting to show you mercy, and is rising up to show you compassion, for the Lord is a just God. All who wait patiently for Him are happy.”
A History of Rebellion
Israel has a history of rebellion. It started in the Garden of Eden and continued through Jesus’ time. It eventually led to the Romans kicking them out of Jerusalem and burning down the Temple. The root of their rebelling was wanting to do their own thing instead of listening to God. In this passage, God is telling them not to seek the protection of Egypt from the attacks of the Assyrians. Israel didn’t listen. Fortunately, God was eating to show them mercy and compassion.
Doing Our Own Thing
If we look back over our lives, we will see a pattern of rebellion as well. It may not seem like it outwardly, but when we insist on doing our own thing instead of what God’s Word tells us, then we are in a state of rebellion. Thankfully God is waiting to show us mercy and compassion as well. He is there is to pick up the pieces when our decisions lead to disaster. This shows His patience and His perseverance with us.
Path to Happiness
Do you want to be happy? Wait patiently for the Lord to reveal; His way to you. Don’t be in such a hurry to make things happen. Let His will and way take its course. This will prevent a lot of heartache and misery down the road. If you have blown it understand that the Lord is there waiting to show you mercy and compassion.