“If that nation, concerning which I have spoken, turns from its evil, I will change my mind about the disaster that I intended to bring on it.” Jeremiah 18:8
Until this morning I had never read that there are verses in the Bible that says God repented or changed His mind. When I think of repentance, I think of an expression from the heart that is a response to sin committed. But we understand words and translations with limited knowledge when it comes to Scripture. We know that God does not sin, so it behooves us to understand the translation. In the Hebrew, shub is the word consistently used when talking about man’s need for repentance. It translates ‘to turn from sin to God.’ The Hebrew word nacham is the word relating to God’s repentance. It translates as ‘being moved to pity.’ God has a responsibility to convict sin, but thankfully He has the love to draw us back to His heart through circumstances He allows. His repentance is a response to our genuine plea for forgiveness and taking up new behavior. ‘When Scripture speaks of God repenting, it doesn’t imply that He’s done something wrong or made a mistake but just that He’s chosen a compassionate response as a result of another’s decision.’ Jonah – Navigating a Life Interrupted, Priscilla Shirer, p. 123.
We don’t have to look any further than our own parenting to understand this concept. There were times we had to correct our children’s bad choices through discipline. The punishment would continue until we felt they had a true heart of sorry. Many times, the punishment would be lessened or lifted based on their desire to reconcile the situation. As parents, Bruce and I were more than happy to restore them to full fellowship and blessings. Many times, our plan of discipline was altered by their change of heart. I believe this is what this concept means…God longs to restore fellowship with His children, leaving space for grace in His discipline. God is always eager to extend His love, mercy and forgiveness, giving us multiple chances to step back in full fellowship with Him.
“For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.” Hebrews 8:12
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