There are many instances in life where a person is rejected for making one bad move. Under those circumstances, a person could be fired from a job, put in jail, get a divorce, end up in bad debt, and more.

Although God can sometimes use harsh measures when dealing with His children, overall, He is very patient and merciful. There are multiple instances in the Bible where He could have told some of His servants – “You’re done.”

Instead, He recommissioned some and informed them they still have work to do. Elijah was one such individual. After turning a nation back to God, he fled for his life and asked God to kill him. Instead of granting his request, God told him of more work he needed to do.

Jonah was a man who deliberately disobeyed God. In fact, he decided that he would rather die than obey. God had other plans and would not choose someone else even though Jonah was rebellious. After a little coaxing from a whale, Jonah was used to bring about the greatest revival ever seen (in spite of himself) – an entire city of idol-worshippers turned from sin to God.

Peter was another man who made a grievous decision and action. He cursed and told those around him that he never knew Jesus. What a lie! Despite his actions, Jesus reinstated him and commissioned him afresh to “Feed my sheep.”

We also make serious mistakes (sins) at times. Have you sinned in some way against God and feel that He cannot or will not forgive you? It is not true. He will forgive (even if people do not) if you are honestly willing to confess that you sinned. God has promised: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (I John 1:9).

Certainly, He is a God of mercy, and “his compassions fail not. They are new every morning.” Why not come back to God right now if you are away from Him? Let Him forgive and cleanse you again as He promised – and give you a second chance.