Psalms 85:1-13
The subject of this psalm is the forgiveness which God will grant to His people Israel. The faithful Jews do not doubt His goodness, but they feel at the same time the weight of His righteous anger against His guilty people. Yes, truly God is good; will He not then forgive? But He is also holy, righteous and true; how then can He pass over a single sin? Mercy and truth, righteousness and peace, these divine characteristics which the human mind finds irreconcilable, have met together (v. 10). In the cross I see sin condemned, righteousness satisfied, grace being given free course (Romans 5:21). Glorious harmony! How many people, alas, not knowing this marvellous meeting point in the cross conjure up a totally false idea of God! They see Him in the character of a stern Judge, allowing His creature to suffer merely for His pleasure. Or they imagine a "good God", ready to pass over "little" sins, easily satisfied with good intentions and well meant efforts. Fatal mistake! The righteous God condemns sin, every sin, but the loving God pardons the sinner. It is at the cross where He has accomplished this work – there is the place where I learn to know Him.