Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:21-23 NIV.
I have a great appreciation for my father-in-law who is 96 years old. He doesn’t make resolutions, but he resolutely reads the Bible day after day, year after year. We all know and admire people like him. Perhaps they began with a New Year’s resolution. Perhaps not. They probably had times in which readings were short or omitted, but they learned to persevere in busy days, difficult days, joyful days, and ordinary days. Since they look to the Lord for the compassion which is new every morning, they don’t need New Year’s resolutions.
Their ability to be faithful can seem like a mystery. We wonder how they managed until we find a clue in the disciple’s teaching, "We love because he first loved us" (John 4:19 NIV). Here we see the comparison. We become faithful because He was first faithful to us.
The Lord uses others to inspire us, but He himself shows us the way. We learn by doing. The more we spend time sitting with Him, hearing His voice, and experiencing His love, the more we yearn to know Him. We discover the mystery. Being faithful actually comes from the desire to be near Him who loves us. It is a by product, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Gently He leads us with unfailing compassions.
Prayer: Gracious Lord, as you are faithful to us may we become faithful to you. In the coming year may we spend more time hearing your voice as we read your Word. Thank you for your promises. Thank you for your compassions. Amen.
© 2008 V. Colclasure
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1 comment:
This is wonderful.
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