Merciful discipline.

But now, for a brief moment, grace has come from the Lord our God to preserve a remnant for us and give us a stake in his holy place. Even in our slavery, God has given us a little relief and light to our eyes. Ezra 9:8

Ezra was overwhelmed to see the goodness of God even while they were slaves because of their disobedience. He said these words when he was told that many Israelites have married foreign wives, which they were strictly prohibited from doing. He was so ashamed as he came before God pleading for His mercy because they were in the process of returning home. He was probably afraid that God would turn the king’s heart against them again and that they would no longer be able to return from exile. God, however, gave them the grace to repent. Isn’t it so beautiful how God gave them relief and brightened their eyes even though He was heartbroken over their many sins? Even in their slavery, while God’s discipline was still lovingly applied to them, He was merciful. I have come to know God as both holy and merciful, and the Bible confirms His perfect character. You might be experiencing the consequences of your sin but as you turn to God you will find His mercy in the thick of your mess. He wants to revive you.