The Goodness of God

[expand title="Devotion Text"] Lamentations 3:21-26 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. I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him." The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. Words cannot describe the horror that faced God’s people when Babylon marched into Jerusalem to destroy the walls of the city and the hearts of the people. No king, prince, priest, prophet or commoner was exempt from devastation and slaughter. Starving mothers resorted to cannibalism. The ceremony of worship ended. People were dragged off into slavery. The author, probably Jeremiah, understands that Babylon was used merely as a human instrument of God’s judgment. Yet through his laments, he wrestles with the ways of God.

In the middle of the book, Jeremiah stops for a moment to focus on the goodness of God. These are the things that Jeremiah calls to mind, and it gives him hope.

God’s great love. Jeremiah reminds himself and his readers that they are alive only because of God’s love. Even in the most desperate times, God’s great compassion never fails. You may be in a difficult situation today. Remember how much God loves you.

God’s great faithfulness. Even when we are faithless, God is faithful. We can always depend on him to bring a fresh pouring out of his love and compassion every morning. God will give us everything we need . . . one day at a time.

God’s great salvation. Deliverance for Israel would not come the next day or the day after that. But they knew that God was their “portion” (their only hope), and they chose to wait on Him. Can you “wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord”? He will come . . . in His way and in His timing.

Father, thank You for Your great love, faithfulness, and salvation that comes even in the most difficult times. Help us wait on You . . . even when waiting and trusting are really hard. In Jesus’ name. Amen. [/expand]

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