Psalm 79:11-13

    11      Let the groaning of the prisoner come before You;
    According to the greatness of Your power
    Preserve those who are appointed to die;
    12      And return to our neighbors sevenfold into their bosom
    Their reproach with which they have reproached You, O Lord.

    13      So we, Your people and sheep of Your pasture,
    Will give You thanks forever;
    We will show forth Your praise to all generations.
-Psalm 79:11-13

I am humbled at the goodness and gentleness of our Father. He is one who rejoices as we run into His arms. God is not simply there to scold us, though discipline and chastisement may play a role in our lives. The Lord is ready to receive us gladly. In Micah, it says that the Lord delights in showing mercy. It is not His utmost pleasure to establish some kind of dominance over us like an insecure child. He wants His children to come to repentance. His desire is that all would be saved.

If you have experienced wandering, or know of one who does, please remember the mercy of God. We feel the condemnation as we understand our own guilt. However, as we come before Jesus and confess, there is no longer any condemnation for we are cleansed. Give thanks to the Lord forever! Hold fast to His goodness and mercy.