“23But the Lord was gracious to them and had compassion on them, and he turned toward them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them nor has he cast them from his presence until now.” – 2 Kings 13:23 (ESV)
What we do not see in this verse is why it is so important. You see, the Lord was gracious even when Jehoahaz was leading Israel and they were worshiping idols and had turned away from God. God continued to honor His covenant with the people of Israel that He had made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Am I always honoring and completely turned to God? Certainly Not. I am human and will stray from my Lord each day. Even if only for a moment and even when I do not realize what I am doing at the time. That is why repentance is so important. I must repent and pray to my Lord each day to remain faithful to Him. And how, by following the model of prayer Jesus gave to the disciples.
“2And he said to them, ‘When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. 3Give us each day our daily bread, 4and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.’” – Luke 11:2-4 (ESV)
When I look at the model prayer given to me by Jesus, I am taken back to the simplicity by which God requires us to act. I am required only to love God, ask only for my needs, repent, forgive, and ask for guidance. When taking this approach my graciousness to God is revealed.
But, here’s the thing, God will love, guide, provide, and protect me even when I may miss a day, week, month, or year. He cares deeply for me and you and will continue to honor His new covenant, even when we wander away briefly.
When you look at your relationship with God, are you aware of that relationship daily? What actions can you take to get back to and demonstrate your graciousness for Him? Are you aware of the grace of God even when you may not be gracious back?
Trevor's Thoughts 