The Hands of the Living God (Proverbs 19:12)

In literature, as well as history, kings are known for either their generosity or the fierceness of their temper.

"The king's wrath is as terrifying as the roaring of a lion, but his favor is as [refreshing as] dew upon the grass." Proverbs 19:12, Amplified

As I stated at the beginning, kings are known for either aspect of demeanor, however they can also be known for both. Our Lord is terrifying since He has power over our souls. But He is also a gracious and loving God.

When it comes to man, though, the king's wrath is as terrifying as a lion because the impending doom seems to be inevitable. I imagine someone locked in a cage with a hungry lion, or even go back tot he story of Daniel in the lion's den. When dealing with a giant animal such as this, any defense that we have will almost prove to be fruitless. The same can be said of our King; there is no defense, whether verbal or physical, that can protect us against His wrath. "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." (Hebrews 10:31, NKJV) Even Jesus stated, "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both body and soul in hell." (Matthew 10:28, NKJV)

Just as He is able to judge and destroy, our God is also a God of love. God desires for everyone to come to a saving knowledge of His Son. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes on Him might not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16, NKJV) Paul even writes the Roman church concerning the goodness of God. "Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance." (Romans 2:4, NKJV) The verse in Proverbs that we are looking at this morning speaks of the goodness and kindness of the king being as the dew on the ground. The dew on the ground is not only refreshing, but it is abundant. When the Lord sent manna to the children of Israel, it described it as being abundant as the dew on the ground.

It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God if indeed we are not one of His. His wrath and judgement is to be feared if we are not saved. His grace and loving kindness is plentiful when we surrender. The hands of the living God are warm and gentle to those who are called by His name.