January 26
Pardon of Sin
The Christian's Daily Treasury"I, even I, am he that blateth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins." — Isaiah 43:25.
How wonderfully is the patience of God displayed towards man. The history of the world presents us with a black picture of man's crimes, and a glowing representation of God's mercies. In the context we see how his forbearance was exercised towards Israel. They were a stiff-necked people, but he had a tender heart: they made him to serve with their sins, but he restrained his judgments; they wearied him with iniquity, but he loaded them with his mercy, they obliterated his testimonies, but he promised to blot out their transgressions. Here we have
AN AFFECTING TRUTH IMPLIED. God takes notice of the sins we commit.
They are recorded. Thus he promises to blot them out. "The sin of Judah is written with a pen of iron, and with the point of a diamond." This is true of all our sins; they are written with the finger of God, in the book of his omniscience.
They are remembered. We may soon forget the particular scenes and circumstances under which they were committed, but it is not so with God. They are remembered against us as debts.
AN ENCOURAGING DECLARATION MADE.
The act. It is the blotting out of sin. The record is made in such durable characters that nothing but the blood of Christ can erase it.
The Agent. The Almighty claims this prerogative. As if he had said, it is I, even I, whom you have offended, — let this therefore excite your wonder. It is I, even I, who have power to do it, therefore let this inspire your confidence. It is I, even I, who am willing to do it, therefore let this encourage your hope.
The ground. What is the principle on which it is bestowed? "For mine own sake." For the sake of his great name, his amazing love, his beloved Son. How delightful are the feelings with which this blessing is associated! The troubled soul, when its pardon is sealed, enjoys a sweet serenity within, like the mighty ocean in a calm, reflecting without a rippled wave the bright and azure sky.