By Evang. Joachim P. Erameh
We can’t know everything about God, but we know what He revealed about Himself in Scripture. When we talk about God’s attributes, the first thing that comes to mind is His mercy. God is truly merciful. Psalm 103:8 says, “The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.” He shows mercy to those who cry out to Him, especially those who are merciful to others (Matthew 5:7).
A friend once said God is “merciful to a fault” – He shows mercy even to those who don’t deserve it. Romans 9:15 says, “I will show mercy to whomever I will show mercy.” We’re in the era of grace, and God is willing to show mercy to whoever comes to Him.
But there’s another side to God: He’s a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29). Don’t test His patience – remember Korah, Dathan, and Abiram (Numbers 16:23-33)? Some people think God’s mercy means He’ll never be angry, but if you provoke Him, He’ll show His other side.
The bottom line? “Fear God and keep His commandments” (Ecclesiastes 12:13).