In an education institution, there were few unruly students. The professors rebuked erring students, yet they did not change. The institution gave them warning letters, not once, but thrice. When there was no change in attitude or behaviour, the management dismissed them. Their future and career crashed.
God also is merciful in dealing with individuals, families, communities, and nations. He provides opportunities to repent by giving warnings. When the warnings are not heeded, God executed judgement by pouring out his wrath. During the time of Noah, the preacher of righteousness called for repentance for over a hundred years. People did not repent, and they perished in flood.
God promised Abraham that his descendants will possess the Promised Land. However, it will be after 400 years. God will dispossess the lands of Amorites and other nations and give over to the Nation of Israel. God gave 400 years to repent for nations. When they failed to turn from their wickedness, God destroyed those nations. “And they shall come back here in the fourth generation, for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete.” (Genesis 15:16) God also promised to punish the nation of Egypt for their oppressive slavery, which was fulfilled by ten plagues. (Genesis 15:14)
First four plagues, Hebrew slaves also endured sufferings along with Egyptians: Water turned to blood, frogs, gnats, and flies. Fifth plague God made distinction between Hebrews and Egyptians. Pharaoh hardened his heart from the beginning. He knew that it was ‘finger of God,’ after three plagues, yet hardened his heart again. (Exodus 8: 19) Then onwards, God hardened his heart, so that his and Egypt’s sin of unrighteousness and oppression may be complete, and God could execute His judgement.
God is not haste in executing judgement. Only when all options of warnings are not heeded, he executes judgement. “He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing.” (Proverbs 29:1)
Do I heed warning, repent, forsake sin and receive forgiveness?