If God saved people only on the basis of their righteousness, nobody would
ever be saved. God’s mercy and compassion are extended according to
God’s will, not man’s. All of us deserve condemnation—not mercy.
To illustrate these points in Romans 9:15, Paul quotes Exodus 53:19, which
describes Israel’s idolatry while Moses was on the mountain receiving the
Law. The whole nation deserved to be destroyed, yet God killed only 3,000
people—not because the others
were less wicked or less godly, but purely because of his grace and mercy.
Still, Paul asked, “Is there unrighteousness with God?” Then he replied, “God
forbid!” (Romans 9:14) It is unthinkable that a holy God should ever commit
an unrighteous act. God is sovereign in His work and acts according to His
own will and purposes. The righteous Judge of this world does right.
Verse for today: “He is the rock, His works are perfect, and all 11 is ways
are just” (Deuteronomy 32:4, NIV).
More to consider: Romans 9:14-18; Exodus 9:16; 33; Job 37:23- 24;
Matthew 20:1-16; Isaiah 45:9-13.
Action assignment: Both God’s love and His fairness are above our
understanding. Still, we must be honest with our attitudes and feelings. Think
of one instance in which God seemed unfair to you; then take a few minutes
to pray earnestly for understanding. However weakly you understand His
ways, express to God your trust in His wisdom by repeating a pledge like
this: “I trust God’s fairness beyond my own limited wisdom and knowledge.
Amen.”
Warren W. Wiersbe
www.backtothebible.in