34Whenever God slew them, they would seek him; they eagerly turned to him again.
35They remembered that God was their Rock, that God Most High was their Redeemer.
- P116
36But then they would flatter him with their mouths, lying to him with their tongues;
37their hearts were not loyal to him, they were not faithful to his covenant.
- P116
38Yet he was merciful; he forgave their iniquities and did not destroy them. Time after time he restrained his anger and did not stir up his full wrath.
39He remembered that they were but flesh, a passing breeze that does not return.
- P117
The psalmist describes Israel‘s persistent sin despite witnessing God‘s worders. - P117
Though they briefly repent when punished, their devotion is insincere.
- P117
Yet, God shows mercy, restraining His wrath and forgiving His people insteadof destroying them. . - P117
He remembers their weakness, knowing their lives are ephemeral - P117
Human nature is a paradox: even though they have seen many of God‘smighty and marvelous works, the Israelites persist in unbelief. They continue sinning, despite witnessing God‘s wonders and experiencing His de-liverance. - P118
Spiritual transformation does not happen through witnessingexternal signs and wonders. The Israelites‘ pattern of turning their backs onGod then returning to Him only in times of distress reveals how people,
both past and present, often treat God as a backup plan rather than theirsupreme treasure. - P118
Nevertheless, the crises we face also come from God‘smercy. They bring us to our knees when prosperity has hardened our hearts.
- P118
In spite of the Israelites‘ faithlessness, God restrains His anger and showscompassion. He is still the same today. When we realize our rebellion and backsliding, let us return to Him; He has promised to forgive us and healour waywardness. - P118
Dear Jesus, You are faithful and will never change. Thank you for Your tenderlove. - P119
Help us to imitate You and be faithful in the small and big things weface in life. In Your name, amen. - P119
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