The Depths of God’s Mercy and Longsuffering

“But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.” Psalm 86:15 

Several terms in this verse describe the love of God. I have always been fascinated by the depths of God’s compassion. It extends far beyond mere sympathy; it is a deep feeling that prompts action. It is a hands-on response to humanity’s condition. This attribute is demonstrated multiple times during Jesus’ life on earth. For instance, in Luke 7, Jesus saw the widow at Nain and had compassion for her. He took action. The greatest expression of God’s compassion was His response to humanity’s sin. The Psalmist also speaks of God as being gracious. The word gracious comes from a term (channûn khan-noon’) meaning to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor. The graciousness of God is an extension of His love and is clearly seen once again in the sending of Jesus to be a perfect sacrifice for man. God’s reconciliation of humanity through Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17-21, displays His love in a magnificent way. Jesus, being sinless, yet willing to humble Himself, leaving the glories of heaven behind to live and be tempted as we are, yet without sin, offers the greatest example of GOD’S graciousness. Deity bent in kindness for me, the inferior. God’s longsuffering blends beautifully with these first two attributes. Although an immediate response of wrath toward man’s sin is the justifiable reaction, GOD was and is longsuffering, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. His longsuffering is seen multiple times throughout the Bible and should be appreciated even to this very hour, as He continues to allow humanity the privilege of choosing to accept His avenue of justification. This connects well with His mercy. Rather than giving us what we deserve, He chose mercy. Why? Because He loves us! He is abundant in mercy and truth. Concerning truth, the idea is stability and trustworthiness. There is stability and trustworthiness regarding God’s love. His compassion is sure, His graciousness is reliable, His long suffering is steadfast. What a loving, wonderful GOD we serve. Glory to His name!