Arrogance, Pharisee's and God's love.

A small yet profound revelation for me this morning as I was praying.

God is not mad at me. I have heard it said more times than I can count not to mention all the sermons with that exact title preached.

But when you realize it for yourself it is something quite different.

I was a Pharisee for years.

Always comparing myself with others and what they were or weren't doing. If you're a christian at any level, I know you can relate to this statement.

I had myself so convinced God was either mad or disappointed with me most of the time. Therefore, if I looked at someone and they were doing things that were worse then God was more mad at them than me, and I could breathe a little easier. Some logic huh?

Then this morning as I was praying for myself, family, church, friends etc.

And I can't explain why but honestly I don't care b/c of the freedom it has brought.

He isn't mad at anyone.

Sad maybe.

But not mad.

God is love.

He loves me, He loves you.

He wants you and will do whatever He can to get you.

He loves the rapist.

He loves the adulterer.

He loves the porn star.

He loves the stay at home mom.

He loves the gang leader.

He loves the drug addict.

He loves the pastor.

He loves the man/woman who is cheating on their taxes.

He loves the homosexual living in sin.

He loves the broken and the hurting.

He is there with open arms waiting to heal the hurt and bring peace and comfort to me, you and anyone else who will let Him.

In my arrogance I never got this before. I am no better or worse than anyone of the above. I am just in need of my Father's love, forgiveness and acceptance.

Read Luke 18:9-14

Romans 2:4 is one of my favorite verses.

Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?

Something else I forgot. Just because I repented and came into relationship with Jesus doesn't mean I never have to repent again. His love and kindness in my life gently shows me other things (sins) in my life that I need to repent of. My heart is bursting with all God is teaching me. I feel so blessed.

As a result of my revelation the Pharisee in me will die and I will walk in freedom.

More importantly, I can now be more effective in helping others see the goodness of God regardless of where they are in life.

He is waiting with open arms, all we have to do is fall into His embrace.