God Doesn’t Punish

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Today’s reading: Ephesians 2: 1-10

I often hear talk of God punishing people, and, for me,  that idea has always been in conflict with the idea that God loves us no matter what we do.

While pondering today’s reading, I believe I have finally stumbled upon the resolution to this conflict. (I have been saying, “Duh!” to myself for at least an hour now.)

The key is this: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves. It is the gift of God.” (verse8)

That sentiment appears many times throughout the Bible, and turning to it always lifts my spirits when I’m down. But, when I’m up, it keeps my ego from leading me toward Satan. It brings God’s perfect, peaceful balance.

God just is. And He is good. He doesn’t punish. Rather, He constantly forgives.  Just as He constantly loves.

When properly grounded in that sentiment, I clearly see that “punishment” is mankind’s idea, not Gods.

Thanks be to God for His eternal, unconditional love.