Lamentations 3:22-33 (NRSV)
Read Lamentations 3:22-33 on biblegateway.com
Verse 22The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; Verse 23they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Verse 24"The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in him." Verse 25The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him. Verse 26It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. Verse 27It is good for one to bear the yoke in youth, Verse 28to sit alone in silence when the Lord has imposed it, Verse 29to put one's mouth to the dust (there may yet be hope), Verse 30to give one's cheek to the smiter, and be filled with insults. Verse 31For the Lord will not reject forever. Verse 32Although he causes grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; Verse 33for he does not willingly afflict or grieve anyone.
Devotion
The messengers of God say “do not be afraid” again and again. I’m glad that message is repeated many times in Scripture, because I need to hear it -- I forget it so easily. Small and large cares sometimes overwhelm me. That’s why I love the opening of today’s text: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.” It is another way of speaking a word of hope and courage. It comes like the break of a new day, full of possibility and promise.
Prayer
Gracious God, we give you thanks every morning for your steadfast love and deep mercy. Amen.