Why Jehovah Is "Ready To Forgive"

Jehovah is aware of our limitations. "He himself well knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dust," says Psalm 103:14. He does not forget that we are creatures of dust, having frailties, or weaknesses, as a result of imperfection. The expression that he knows "the formation of us" reminds us that the Bible likens Jehovah to a potter and us to the clay vessels he forms. (Jeremiah 18:2-6) The Great Potter tempers his dealings with us according to the frailty of our sinful nature and the way we respond or fail to respond to his guidance.

Jehovah understands how powerful sin is. His Word describes sin as a portent force that has man in its deadly grip. Just how strong is sin's hold? In the book of Romans, the apostle Paul explains: We are "under sin," as soldiers are under their commander (Romans 3:9) ; sin has "ruled" over mankind like a king (Romans 5:21); it "resides," or is "dwelling," within us (Romans 7:17, 20); its "law" is continually at work in us, in effect trying to control our course. (Romans 7:23, 25) What a powerful hold sin has on our fallen flesh! -Romans 7:21, 24.

Hence, Jehovah knows that perfect obedience is not possible for us, no matter how earnestly we may yearn to give it to him. He lovingly assures us that when we seek his mercy with a contrite heart, he will extend forgiveness. Psalm 51:17 says: " The sacrifices to God are a broken spirit; a heart broken and crushed, O God, you will not despise." Jehovah will never reject, or turn away, a heart that is "broken and crushed" by the burden of guilt.

Does that mean, though, that we can presume on God's mercy, using our sinful nature as an excuse to sin? Certainly not! Jehovah is not guided by mere sentiment. His mercy has limits. He will by no means forgive those who hardheartedly practice will sin, not showing any repentance. (Hebrews 10:26) On the other hand, when he sees a contrite heart, he is ready to forgive. Let us now consider some of the expressive language used in the Bible to describe this marvelous facet of Jehovah's love.

Next time: How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002