where is the God of justice?

i'm not a very bold or brave christian.  i don't enjoy debating or arguing with people, although i love to talk about Jesus and the gospel with those who want to talk.  however, in the conversations that i have had with most of my friends about God, i've noticed 2 main themes.

either they think of God as an indulgent fool, who loves us all enough to wink at our sin because we're not really all that bad; or they think He must not exist, because there is too much injustice in the world and a loving God wouldn't permit it.

apparently, we have been thinking of God like this for ages.

you have wearied the Lord with your words.  

but you say, 'how have we wearied Him?'  

by saying 'everyone who does evil is good 

in the sight of the Lord, and he delights in them.' 

or by asking 'where is the God of justice?'    

(malachi 2:17)

we weary God.  that's a lot of aggravation, to weary His merciful heart.  imagine being considered so, by the very ones He knit together, the very ones He breathed life into with care and blessing.

i think i'd give up.  'fine then,' i'd say, cold as ice, 'if you think i'm a fool, an ignorant or blind God, i'll be one to you.  and you want justice?  i'll give you justice.  hell is exactly what you deserve.'

but thank God His heart is not my heart.
He offers mercy.  salvation.  justice?  not justice - so much more than justice.

return to me, and i will return to you, says the Lord of hosts.  (malachi 3:7)