When I taught high school mathematics, one of the most difficult concepts to relate was the idea of infinity. The idea of something existing that has no end is tough to grasp. Our number system is a simple example. No matter where you stop counting, you can always add one more. Forever. Infinity…
When GOD, through inspiration, gave us the Scriptures, He gave us many examples of forgiveness. We recently looked at one such illustration. Micah said that when GOD forgives us of sin, it is as though He throws the sins into the depths of the sea. As far removed as that is, there is still a limit to the depths of the sea. However, there is a Scriptural example that makes use of the idea of infinity.
Psalms 103:12 reads, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”
I think I know why He didn’t say as far as the North is from the South. When you start out in the direction of North, there is only so far you can go while still traveling North. Eventually, you will reach the North Pole and then your route will be headed South. However, if you start out going East, you will never reach a point at which you are no longer heading East. You will continue in an easterly direction forever. For infinity…
GOD says: I will remove your transgressions as far away from you as the East is from the West…infinity. Thank you, GOD, for forgiveness.
I just found your blog via Drew. I hope you write more. It’s good to have a little something to think on during the day 🙂
This is wonderful! Thank you Drew for letting us know. Thank you Glenn for writing this down for us!
I heard Dan Winkler preach a lesson on forgiveness and he used this same example. What a powerful statement! We as humans find it hard to forgive just or a day or two without bringing it back up Sometimes we all want definitive parameters and feel that without them it’s hard to comprehend. God is all knowing and with faith we can find comfort in his word and teachings. What a comfort to know that my past sins can be totally forgotten in his eyes!
Wonderful thoughts and scripture on God’s forgiveness! Such a wonderful blessing to all Christians! Thank you for taking the time to share!