God's Character

The waiting passenger became furious with the gate attendant when the time of departure for his flight had been delayed. “What good are those numbers if you have to change them and tell us that the flight is being delayed?” he demanded.

“Well, sir,” said the attendant, “no one would be prepared for the departure of the flight unless we keep our passengers informed. The numbers tell people what to do”

There is a strong statement about the character of God in Psalm 102. The people were suffering and felt separated from God because of the sin in their lives. We often forget that suffering and sin are inseparable. And instead of wanting to give up their sin, they wanted to be delivered from their suffering. But that’s not the way God works!

“You will arise and have compassion,” he wrote, “for it is time to show favor to Your chosen.” There was no doubt in his mind that God would show compassion - but it would be in His time and on His terms. Our God is a righteous God, and we cannot expect Him to show us His favor if we are disobedient to His Word. It tells us what to do.

“You will arise,” said the Psalmist in confidence. He knew that God was attentive to their needs. He knew that “the appointed time had come.”

What determines the “appointed time” for God to respond to our prayers? Our attitude: repenting and asking for His forgiveness. When we take this first step, He will begin to respond to our requests for His help and begin to work His miracles in our lives.

Prayer:  Father, may we understand the fact that we must confess and forsake our sins if we want Your help. Your gifts depend on our faithfulness to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: You will arise and have compassion for it is time to show favor to Your chosen. Psalm 102:13