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.”