--GOD'S LOVE AND JUDGMENT~~

"The LORD is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy." PSALM 145:8-

-Imagine what the world would be like if God were only a God of love, who never judged evil or tried to stop it. Evil men could carry out their plans without fear. They would never have to worry that God would judge them or try to stop them.

Now imagine what the world would be like if God were only a God of judgment, who punished us every time we did wrong. If God were like that, none of us would ever have a chance, for we sin every day. Sometimes, however, God does correct and discipline us--not because He hates us, but because He loves us and wants us to turn from the destructive path we are on.

If you are a parent, you love your children, but at times, you need to discipline them for their good. In a far greater way, God loves us, so He also disciplines us when we need it for our good. The Bible says, "Do not...be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the LORD loves He chastens." (Hebrews 12:5-6)

--HOPE/BG