"Our prayer and God's mercy are like two buckets in a well; while the one ascends the other descends." - Mark Hopkins, American educator and Congregationalist theologian (1802-1887)
Did you know that you don't have to carry the weight of previous mistakes and setbacks into tomorrow? That's correct! God's mercy isn't a temporary or one-time fix. He generously supplies us with what we need to face our daily troubles.
As the prophet Jeremiah tells us in Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV) "The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
He presumably wrote the book of Lamentations in the wake of Jerusalem's destruction by the Babylonians. Amidst the turmoil, he composed this powerful statement of hope and trust in God's character, and not in the situation.
This passage is a reminder that in turbulent times, God's love is a constant source of strength. His mercies are renewed because of his eternal, faithful character and not our worthiness; and that His love is resolute and unchangeable.
In the same way that God supplied the Israelites with fresh manna every morning in the wilderness, He furnishes us daily with necessary spiritual nourishment and mercy, since yesterday's mercies are unusable for today's challenges.
For those who may be experiencing trials at this moment, knowing that God's mercies are "new every morning" is a helpful heads-up that the darkness of the night is not permanent.
The dawning of a new day symbolizes God's light piercing the veil of shadows, bringing a fresh start and hope. How can you apply the truth of this message in your own life? You can:
Repent and ask for forgiveness - Since God's mercy is enduring, you have the opportunity to confess your sins and receive his forgiveness daily.
Recommit your life to Him - You can renew your faith and courage of conviction each day, acknowledging that God's grace is ready to meet your needs.
Rejoice ceaselessly - The daily renewal of mercy is a reason for our continual praise and joy, releasing you from worrying about whether God has abandoned you.
Overall, it may be said, that regardless of the difficulties you faced yesterday, today is a brand-new day abundantly filled with God's invigorating mercy, unceasing faithfulness, and reliable love.
Scripture: Exodus 34:6–7; Micah 7:1-8; Ephesians 2:4–5; Hebrews 4:16; 1 Peter 1:3
Prayer: "Dear God, I am deeply grateful for Your steadfast mercy; that is always waiting for me every morning. Amen."
Grace and peace,
Marlowe
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.