God’s Behavior

Passage – they refused to listen and paid no attention
to the wonders you had done among them.
No, they stiffened their necks, and in their rebellion
appointed a leader to return them to their slavery.
But because you are a God of forgiveness,
merciful, full of compassion,
slow to grow angry and full of grace,
you did not abandon them. Nehemiah 9:17

Restated in my own words – Despite the people’s actions, God because of His character did not abandon them.

Application to my life – God’s behavior is not dictated by my actions. God’s behavior is based on His character. So many times I want to blame my response on someone else’s behavior, yet I was made in the image of God. How I respond to others has more to do with my character than their actions. I am responsible for me.

How can I respond more consistently despite the actions of those around me? How can I respond more consistently despite how my flesh feels?

Surrender.

Your response back to God – Lord, thank You for Your character. Thank You that You are slow to anger with me and that You are forgiving. Thank You that You are full of compassion. Thank You for Your mercy and grace. You are an awesome God. There is none like you!