Ps 99:8 O Lord our God, you answered them, You were a forgiving God to them, but you punished them when they went wrong.
God already knows the outcome of every circumstance. It is just who he is. Then, why are we surprised when, because of our choices, we need to be reprimanded. Every decision we make has repercussion and even affects others. Without guidance by the Holy Spirit of God, we can choose the wrong way and make mistakes. Our mistakes are part of life’s learning process. Fleshly desires and pleasures are against the one who made us in his own image and will lead to sin. When we blatantly go against God, the reprimands can be severe.
Some say “if God made me in his image, why do I keep going back to my fleshly sins?” Again, free will. We have a choice, but the easy way can be the wrong way; thus sin. The Holy Spirit can help us see the path we are on and help turn us from attitudes or actions that don’t please God. God never promised us an easy life, but he did send the Holy Spirit to comfort us and help us through the tough times.
But this story isn’t over. When we make mistakes, no matter what it is, and ask for forgiveness, he not only forgives us but cleanses us to make us brand new. Once we start over and follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance the negative outcomes become more tolerable, because there is hope. Hope gives us strength to fight the temptations. Even Jesus was tempted, so don’t think you are the only one with a particular problem. God the Father sent angels to help and strengthen him through times of need and Jesus was victorious over Satan. You will be too.
Jena Kleinpeter 