A.
The Lord, the
Lord God
He pronounces His divine name twice [Yahweh] followed by “El”,
the Biblical designation for deity. True God This was
possibly done for emphasis. “Yahweh” The Hebrew
word stresses His eternal self-existence. (Exodus
3:131-15)
His existence does not depend upon anyone or anything.
B.
Merciful
This means a deep and tender feeling of compassion, such as is
aroused by sight of weakness or suffering in those that are dear
to us or need our help. This is seen in family relationships.
(Psalm
103:13)
A father is concerned about his children and their needs.
Jehovah’s mercy is seen in His dealings with Israel. (Deuteronomy
4:30-31)
Although He is a holy God, His compassion allows Him to deal
with weak people and forgive them. (Psalm
178:38-39)
C.
Gracious
Giving
a heartfelt response by someone who has something to give to one
who has a need. This is typically used by a stronger person
coming to help a weaker person. This aspect of God’s nature
keeps Him from turning away from the repentant. (II
Chronicles 30:8-9)
D.
Longsuffering
Slow
to anger Jehovah’s anger is a result of man’s sin and
rebellion. His righteousness demands that the wickedness be
punished. But He does not hurry to punish. (II
Peter 3:9)
While there is coming a day of reckoning, man has the
opportunity throughout his life to turn from sin and obey God.
E.
Abounding in
Goodness
Unfailing love, affection, kindness Jehovah gives
blessings beyond anything His people might hope for or desire.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” (Psalm
136:1)
The word translated mercy is the same word used here. This
goodness is eternal.
F.
Abounding in
Truth
Jehovah’s
faithful and reliable and can be depended upon to do as He has
promised. His nature abounds in this characteristic. “Your
truth reaches in the clouds.” (Psalm
108:4)
His words can be trusted because they are truth. Truth is bound
up in His character. “Your Word is truth.” (John17:17)
G.
Keeping mercy for thousands God extends
mercy to all who need it. Possibly referring to thousands of
generations, He will extend mercy until the end of time. (Exodus
20:6)
H.
Forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin
Part
of His nature is His willingness to forgive. “Lift up, carry,
take away.” (Micah
7:19)
“. . .cast all our sins into the depths of the seas.”
“iniquity” crooked behavior; turning away from the straight
way “transgression” rebellion, revolt, a breach “sin”
missing the way [missing God’s standards]
I.
No means
clearing the guilty
Those who do not repent will not go unpunished. They are
guilty. Because God is holy and just, the guilty will face
serious consequences. God does not punish children or
grandchildren for their parents’ sins. (Ezekiel
18:20)
But He doesn’t remove natural consequences of people’s sinful
behavior, even if innocent people get hurt. Children suffer
when they grow up in a household where a parent is an
alcoholic. They reap consequences of the parents’ sin.
