Tamar: You Matter to GodSample

God's Grace and Mercy

Before Tamar decided to commit incest, she may have convinced herself that she had to fulfill tradition, no matter the cost. Perhaps her motive was revenge because her father-in-law was not willing to fulfill his promise. Whichever it is, Tamar took matters into her own hands and avenged herself by having sex with her father-in-law.

Despite committing incest, Tamar is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, our sinless savior. This may be unacceptable to self-righteous folks. Yet, the holiest and righteous God saw fit to list her in his genealogy. 

Sometimes, we make the wrong choices due to frustration and impatience. God understands our frailties (Hebrews 4:15-16). While people may shame us for our mistakes and judge us based on our past, God extends mercy and grace to us (Isaiah 43:25). 

There are times I accomplish things in my own strength and lean on my own understanding like Tamar. There are times I avenge myself by speaking words or acting in ways that would hurt those who hurt me. God gracefully convicts me through his Spirit in me and through his Word. God's Spirit lives in you and God's Word is available for you to study. 

2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV) says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” 

Open up your heart and accept God's grace through conviction. God’s grace is not a license to sin; it is our license to freedom from the torment of sin (Romans 6:1-7). 

Sometimes, we attempt to avenge ourselves by not forgiving those responsible for our pain or traumatic experiences. God understands the pain of betrayal and he is our ultimate avenger. We do not have to avenge ourselves like Tamar. We must forgive ourselves and others if we want to experience total freedom. As God extends his grace to us, He wants us to extend grace to ourselves and others. When we receive and experience God’s mercy and grace, we are freed from every bondage.

You may have chosen a rebellious life despite growing up in a Christian home. God’s mercy and grace are available for you. In the parable of the prodigal son, God makes it clear that he wants us to come back to him so we can experience his goodness, mercy, grace, and love when we do not deserve it (Luke 15: 11-24). 

God's grace and mercy is a reminder that you matter to God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace, love, and mercy. I ask that you teach me to forgive, love, and extend mercy to myself and those who have hurt me. I need your help. I come before your throne of grace for mercy and empowerment to walk in forgiveness every day of my life. In Jesus' name. 

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