Devotion: Lamentations 3:23

Lamentations 3:23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 

The book of Lamentations is not typically a book of joy and hope. It was written by the prophet Jeremiah, who is often calling the weeping prophet. He wrote an entire book – Lamentations – or the laments of life. But amidst those weepings and laments we do find hope. We do see encouragement. And we do find joy.

We see in today’s verse that the things of God, His  grace, forgiveness, and compassion, never run out. Instead, they are continuously renewed each and every  day.  They provide us with a fresh start, a new beginning, and 100%, full, wholly unwavering support no matter what challenges we may have faced prior. They are new every morning. New. Not just once or twice but new EVERY MORNING.

Grace is not something that gets used up. It isn’t just granted once and then we have reached the quota. His compassion, His forgiveness, His love is new at any time, any point of any day. Every moment you are alive is a new moment to make better choices, to turn to Him, to repent, to receive grace.

And He is faithful all the time. Despite our flaws, despite our fluctuating emotions or unpredictable nature, He loves us anyway and He remains faithful at all times. His faithfulness is the foundation from which His mercies come, His grace never failing. He can be counted on to do what He says He would. He has done it before, He will do it again, without fail. He can be counted on because He is faithful.

The second half of this verse is the basis for the Christian hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” It is read or sung as a reminder of God’s reliability, of His faithfulness,  and to offer comfort during tough seasons, such as those of grief, transition, or anxiety. He is a faithful Father and we can see why this portion of the hymn became the refrain in this much- beloved hymn.

Today let’s pause and reflect on just how great His faithfulness is. Think of recent times when He extended grace or mercy to you, when He lifted you from despair, when He carried you through the storm. And then thank Him. Thank Him for all He has given you, the blessings in your life, and for always being the faithful provider to you.

Prayer: Lord, I don’t deserve Your grace or mercy but I thank You for giving them freely anyway. Thank You for always caring for me and for getting me through the trials of life. Amen

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