One of the most profound truths we glean from the Bible is the truth about God’s character. From the creation account in the book of Genesis to the final countdown in Revelation we see God’s omnipotence (He can do anything), His Omniscience (He knows everything), and His Omnipresence (He’s everywhere at the same time). But what matters most of us as human beings is the nature of God as He relates to us, His fallen creatures. How will this “Omni” God deal with us in our frail moral character? God wants us to understand what He’s like and how He relates to us. That’s why he gave us the Bible.

With respect to our weaknesses he wants us to always remember that He’s a God who forgives. He will not forsake us! That is, He will never leave us to face the world and sin alone. He will always be there for us and is standing ready to forgive and restore at every moment, even when we turn away from Him. As Nehemiah reviewed the history of Israel’s people, he inspired the new generation with the reminder of this character trait of God. He tells them, “They refused to obey and were not mindful of the wonders that you performed among them, but they stiffened their neck and appointed a leader to return to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and did not forsake them” Nehemiah 9:17.

I remember the old movie “High Noon.” I have the song with the same name sung by Tex Ritter in my mp3 collection. Yet, I like Frankie Laine’s version better. It begins with the words, “Do not forsake me…” This phrase shows up a remarkable number of times in the bible. Do not forsake me (Ps. 27:9; Ps. 38:21; Ps. 119:8); do not leave me to my oppressors (Ps. 119:121); do not turn away the face of your anointed (Ps. 132:10); do not cast me from your presence (Ps. 51:11); do not cast me off in old age (Ps. 71:9; Ps. 71:18); do not forsake me when my strength fails (Ps. 71:9); do not forsake the work of your hands (Ps. 138:8); do not forsake us (Jer. 14:9); do not reject us forever (Ps. 44:23); may he not leave us nor forsake us (1 Kgs. 8:57). The bottom line is that He will never forsake us!

Chuck
“Do not fear or be in dread …for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6