February 9
His Patience is Great
“…knowing that the goodness of the Lord leadeth thee to repentance?” —Romans 2:4
Read Romans 2:1-16
God’s Word tells us that not every believer is converted in the same way. Consider examples such as Paul, Timothy, Lydia and the Philippian jailer. Conversion may take place while listening to a sermon or through some special circumstances, like the life of the prodigal son.
In our text we read about repentance through “the goodness of God.” Are we not inclined to despise the riches of God’s goodness? Are you ever humbled by what God has given? You have a roof over your head, loving parent(s), health, life, a church family, and many more things; every day the Lord reveals His goodness to you. How long-suffering the Lord is to you, even when you remain silent as someone curses. He bore with you when you went your own way, when you attended church unwillingly, when you spoke derisively about God’s servant, when you went to a bar, and when you argued with your parents. There were so many occasions in your life that you deserved to be cast away by the Lord, but He put up with you. Do not despise His mercy in light of the many callings and warnings that have been sent your way.
In considering all these things, we must bow our heads in shame and confess, “How is it possible that I am still in the land of the living?” God’s answer is, “Through My goodness.” Doesn’t that humble you?
Do you see the goodness of God in your life?
This devotional was taken from “The Time of Your Life” a daily devotional published by the Youth & Educational Committee of the FRC. To order a printed copy of this book, contact: bookorders@frcna.org.