The High Cost of False Assumption

False assumptions build a bridge to disappointments by contributing to unhappiness and failure to reach objectives. False assumption believes something is actually true only to discover a price must be paid for self-deception. We can be thankful when God opens our minds to the truth and gives us courage to change.

Moses must have been tremendously disappointed within himself when all the miracles God performed and all he could do were not enough to change the Hebrew people’s attitudes and sinful choices. Moses assumed he had a free pass to cross over into the Promised Land. He had suffered forty years bringing the Hebrews to the Promised Land.

Moses’ mistake was making it appear that God had to obey him when he became angry with God. God permitted Moses’ anger to be seen as a source of power that caused water to flow out of a rock, but only at great cost. God would forgive Moses and love him although the consequences of his sin had to be acknowledged and experienced.  

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I have sinned and done wrong since the day I was born.

~Psalm 51:5 Contemporary English Version

 

But you are merciful and gentle, Lord, slow in getting angry, full of constant lovingkindness and of truth; so look down in pity and grant strength to your servant and save me.

~Psalm 86:15-16 The Living Bible

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From Wind to Whirlwind

Seeking revenge is comparable to sowing the wind only to reap the whirlwind. A Filipino proverb argues, “They who sow the wind will reap the typhoon”. The compulsion to get revenge may not take into consideration the possibility of a backlash, as in sudden acts of violence being hurled back in a tit-for-tat show of strength.

 

When the sons of Jacob reacted to the rape of their sister by murdering everyone they deemed responsible, they never considered the effect it would have on their father. Jacob was overcome by fear and fled the country because he expected retaliation. He knew revenge does not remain un-revenged.

When we've been hurt, God intends for us to act with mercy. God wants us to trust him to act appropriately, which means he will do what is just, but with mercy. Sir Thomas Elliott warned that if mercy is missing in us, all other virtues will be stifled. Think about that for a minute. Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy.”
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But you, O Lord, are a merciful and loving God, always patient, always kind and faithful. Turn to me and have mercy on me; strengthen me and save me...
~PSALM 86:15-16 Good News Bible