What does "God does not take away life" reveal about His character? Setting the Verse in Context 2 Samuel 14:14: “For surely we will die and be like water poured out on the ground which cannot be recovered. Yet God does not take away life, but He devises ways so that the banished one may not be cast out from Him.” Spoken by the wise woman of Tekoa, these words highlight the contrast between human frailty and God’s rescuing heart. Key Phrase—“God does not take away life” Rather than delighting in judgment, the Lord actively seeks to preserve and restore. He values life, offers avenues of return, and treats the banished as redeemable. What This Reveals About God’s Character • Life-Giver: God’s first act toward humanity was to breathe life (Genesis 2:7). Here we see the same life-affirming nature at work. • Compassionate Mercy: “He does not willingly afflict or grieve the sons of men” (Lamentations 3:33). His heart bends toward pity. • Relentless Reconciler: He “devises ways” for the estranged to come home. The ultimate way is Christ (John 14:6). • Patient and Long-suffering: “The Lord is not slow concerning His promise… not wishing for anyone to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). • Lover of Justice and Grace: Justice demands payment; grace provides the means. Both meet in the cross (Romans 3:26). • Enemy of Death: “I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked… turn back and live!” (Ezekiel 33:11). He opposes death because He is life. Supporting Passages • Ezekiel 18:32—“For I take no pleasure in anyone’s death… so repent and live!” • John 3:16—God gives His Son “that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish.” • Psalm 103:10-13—He “does not treat us as our sins deserve… As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.” • Luke 15:20—The father “ran, embraced, and kissed” the prodigal; a picture of the God who “devises ways.” • 1 Timothy 2:3-4—He “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” Takeaways for Us Today • Approach God with confidence; His instinct is to restore, not destroy. • Value every human life, mirroring the Creator’s regard for life. • Share the gospel, knowing God has already “devised” the way of salvation. • Live repentantly; the path back is open, but we must walk it. • Rest in assurance: even when discipline comes, it flows from a life-giving heart (Hebrews 12:6-11). In Sum “God does not take away life” unveils a Father who cherishes life, pursues the lost, and provides redemptive pathways—culminating in Jesus, the ultimate proof that He would rather save than see anyone perish. |
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