Do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance. (Rom. 2:4)

One night in high school, I stayed out well past my curfew. I was having fun, and the time had gotten away from me. I was wrong, and no excuses would have made things right. As I realized what was waiting for me at home — a set of angry parents with arms crossed and toes tapping — I lost all desire to hurry back. Why rush back to the wrath I deserved?!

When I finally did make it home, my parents hugged me instead of scolding me. Being so long overdue had worried them far more than I anticipated. Their joy at my return exceeded their anger at my absence.

My parents’ reaction was far different than what I had anticipated. I immediately felt more chastened than if they had yelled at me. They were so happy I was safe that, even when they later corrected me, I had no doubt I was deeply loved. Their kindness sparked resolve in me not so to burden their hearts again.

Such is God’s intention for us. His unswerving grace, even when mixed with parental discipline, is to convince us of his love so that we turn from the sin that hurts him and us. The kindness of God leads to true repentance.

Prayer:
Lord, help me not to sin. And thank you that, when I do err, assurance of your kindness turns me from sin to my Savior.