"Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. The LORD was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart."
Genesis 6:5-6
In the days of Noah men and women were so wicked that God was sorry He had created us, and His heart grieved. When I read these words I wonder that humans can believe that God is unloving, unjust and unkind. And even more so when I consider that God gave His only Son to rescue us from destruction. That's how much He loves us. "The LORD is gracious and merciful; Slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. The LORD is good to all, And His mercies are over all His works." (Psalm 145:8-9) God's holiness will not allow Him to ignore sin, but He doesn't delight in the death of the wicked. "'As I live!' declares the Lord GOD, 'I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked turn from his way and live.'" (Ezekiel 33:11) God hates sin, but loves the sinner. He doesn't send anyone to hell. Man sends himself when he refuses to receive the free gift of salvation. The gift that God paid for with His own life. "No doubt God will pity sinners in hell forever. He has given the highest evidence that He loves sinners. Think how long He spares them to live in their sins; at how great a sacrifice He sent His Son to die for them, even while they were yet enemies. What proof of love can be greater that this?" -- Finney
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