I am glad that God does not think the way that we do! God is so much more merciful.
Usually, when mercy is called for, we ask for what we call "justice." But the justice we want is usually revenge.
We don't usually "turn the other cheek" when we are insulted or injured! Just look at the cases of road rage these days, or people ganging up on others when they feel that they have been disrespected.
Because God does not judge as we do, we know that his promise of mercy for our sins is real. He will, and has, forgiven us for so much and will continue to do so when we turn to him and ask. All he wants is a heart that is turned to him, and our desire to repent and to do better.
Temptation will always be a problem for us. But we do have a responsibility to avoid those people or those circumstances that lead us into sin. This can be difficult, especially if temptation comes from family or friends.
I know people who have been emotionally abused as children and are so in need of someone to love them, but are also conditioned to equate love with abuse, that they cannot leave an abuser.
I had a friend whose mother was an alcoholic and she was pretty much raised by her aunts. She, in turn, married an alcoholic who emotionally abused her. Even though she complained about his behavior, she wouldn't leave him; she kept trying to save him, as she could not save her mother.
Alcoholics and those addicted to drugs find it hard to let go of their drinking or drug using friends when they have achieved sobriety and often go back to alcohol or drugs as a result.
Let us ask God both for forgiveness and for the courage and strength to avoid the temptations that the devil uses to ensnare us.
