2 Kings 13 Devotions by Stephen Taylor

2 Kings 13:23

But the LORD was gracious to them and had compassion and showed concern for them because of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. To this day He has been unwilling to destroy them or banish them from His presence.

2 Kings 14:26,27- The LORD had seen how bitterly everyone in Israel, whether slave or free, was suffering; there was no one to help them. And since the LORD had not said He would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven, He saved them by the hand of Jeroboam son of Jehoash.

The profoundly beautiful and merciful heart of our God is undeniable. The above verses show us how His heart is bent towards mercy for His people, despite their many flaws. You see, these verses come right in the midst of great idolatry and sin in Israel and Judah; yet, God looks beyond that sin and shows mercy, not because He approves of that sin, but He knows that it’s kindness and mercy that will lead the people to repentance, not judgment.

Now, there will be a day for judgment, but until that day, God chooses to show us mercy over what we deserve. The question then becomes, what will we do with this great mercy that has been shown to us? Will we turn our lives completely over to Christ in whom our only hope rests? Or will we continue to be obstinate and hard-hearted, rushing headlong into disaster?

Jesus is the ultimate example of mercy; God’s perfect Son crucified that the rebellious ones may return home! God is being patient with us as He was patient with them, but one day that door will close, and all we will be left with is everything He came to save us from!

Luke 23:39-43- One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at Him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

God bless! I love you all, but His love endures forever! Glory, honor, and praise now and forever to Papa God, Jesus Christ our King, and the Holy Spirit!