Faithfulness

Lamentations 3:22-23 Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.

Faithfulness is a rare virtue these days. In our culture if things are not going smoothly in your marriage, then it is permissible to jump ship rather than weather the storm. The sacred vows of commitment were apparently only a ceremonial exercise to many people. Though faithfulness is not modeled well in our society it is the hallmark of God’s character.

In Lamentations 3:22-23 Jeremiah is in the midst of writing a lament for the people of God. They have been disobedient and are reaping the just judgment for their actions. In the midst of their punishment Jeremiah is encouraged as he considers the faithfulness of God. At times men are cruel, unfaithful, and unloving. Not so with God. God is always a merciful God.

Just as the sun shines forth on the earth in a renewed vigor every day, so God’s mercy beams forth in new rays of mercy every morning. Faithfulness may be a rare virtue in our cultural surroundings, but it is a regular part of the celestial world.

When looking for a model of faithfulness, perhaps we should set our sights a little higher.

God's Purpose

1777

Anglican hymn writer John Newton wrote in a letter: 'God often takes a course for accomplishing His purposes directly contrary to what our narrow views would prescribe. He brings a death upon our feelings, wishes and prospects when He is about to give us the desire of our hearts.'

Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That sav’d a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears reliev’d;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believ’d!

Thro’ many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promis’d good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease;
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who call’d me here below,
Will be forever mine.