How often do we, in the aftermath of our sins, flee from the presence of God, not to? This is the work of the "little pharisee" within us, driving us into hiding. There he clothes us in a self-made garment of guilt, a fig-leaf apron, and endure a self-prescribed season of penance, drowning in the icy waters of remorse. Until... until we feel our penance is, “enough.” We deeply feel that only after such penance-wrestling may we approach Christ, holding out our own sorrow and shame (with a little more penance on the side), and seek His fellowship again. Yet, this perspective is a grave error.
This passage of scripture blooms a reassuring and profound truth that ought to provide the child of God with enormous comfort. What truth do you ask? The truth that we, in our sinfulness, may yield greater glory to God by immediately throwing ourselves upon His mercy. The marvel of this passage is that the Lord has intricately woven together His glory to our recovery.
Yet, I often stumble, filled with the misguided notion that I must first 'feel' the weight of my sin, to an unknown pound, before seeking restoration. But how much is enough? This practice is a colander that holds no water in it for long. It inadvertently severs the precious bond between the mercy of Christ and our swift deliverance. It is through speedy repentance that the glory of God is made manifest. Failing to accept His mercy in Christ Jesus inflicts harm upon us and tarnishes the core of His mercy and goodness, the essence of His glory. Indeed, "where sin abounded, grace did much more abound." We cannot flee to Him too soon.
Dear one, surrender to Him early the glory that this text proclaims. Don’t delay in finding His mercy in the midst of your guilt. No waiting period cessionary. We must see that the only redeeming act in sinning is seeking His mercy quickly. When the devil attempts to plant seeds of despair within our hearts, pushing us away from the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father, cling to this truth: God, in His infinite wisdom, has chosen to reveal His glory primarily through His mercy, above all His other attributes. This mercy, being the initial attribute that inspires all others. It brings honor to Christ when we seek refuge swiftly. Let this truth be your stronghold, your city of refuge, dear one. When you feel the avenger of blood hot on your heels, seek immediate sanctuary in this verse, "where sin abounded, grace did much more abound."
Speak to your own soul of this text. Don’t deny yourself this comfort. To do so is not only a disservice to your peace, but a denial of glory to your Savior. For, "where sin increased, grace increased all the more." Yes, that's the message. Even if sins committed after conversion tarnish our faith more than before, always run, dear one, without delay, into the limitless mercy of God in Christ.
The gift of grace overflows, extending seventy times seven, even unto you.