There is a verse in Romans that says that it is God’s mercy that leads us to repentance. Some translations call it kindness. I am always struck by the fact that it doesn’t say, “It is the wrath of God that leads us to repentance.” or “It is God’s condemnation that leads us to repentance.” Or “It is the law that brings people to repentance.”
Repentance is definitely important to God, but He does not force us to repent. When my kids were little, I would get so exasperated when they fought that I would sometimes force them to apologize to each other. Of course it was obvious that they weren’t really repentent, because they weren’t convicted that they had done something wrong, they were forced to abide by a law.
It is encouraging to me to see that mercy is God’s plan for reaching the world, not subjugation. What a relief to be reminded that the abuse of power we see in government and even in some religous settings, are not an accurate representation of my God.
And what a hope to know that God is relentless in seeking and loving and showing mercy, whether we acknowledge Him or not. Because He does not wish for anyone to perish. he is a loving Father, not given to whims of anger or unpredictable tantrums. He is steady, loving and powerful. What a great combination. I can trust a God like that.