“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7 (NIV)
Each new year beckons a fresh start. As you look inward and do an honest, deep introspection, you will recognise that you have made some progress in life qualitatively, but you still have serious shortcomings or inadequacies. How did you get there? By overcoming challenges and struggles with spiritual strength, prayers, and a positive mindset. As you measure your life against God’s Word, your desire should be to improve it to please Him.
Sometimes, you were tempted to give up, but as a child of God, you called on the Lord, our Father, for help, and He answered. What is noteworthy is that in every difficulty, you had to wait to achieve your goals, but you saw the hand of God in every situation. Therefore, you have hope.
In Lamentations 3:22-23, the Prophet Jeremiah emphasises that it is “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning..”. Our God is forever faithful, brethren. He is constant. His love and faithfulness are two notable attributes. He demonstrated His love for us by sending His only Son, Jesus, to die for our sins – John 3:16. That is love! 1 John 4:7 states, “….love is of God, and everyone that loves is born of God.”
Throughout life’s journey God is forever present in our lives. He loves us, guides us, and demonstrates His faithfulness daily. He prepares a table before us even in the presence of our enemies, even in difficult times. What an awesome God we serve. What an amazing Father! You can depend on Him at all times. He knows us, and He loves us. He will set us up high where we belong.
I heard this story once. Mary lived in an apartment all her life, paying rent. Suddenly, she lost her job and could not pay her rent, utilities, and other expenses. She cried, complained, and then decided to call upon Father God by prayer. Early one morning, she received a phone call informing her that her rent was paid in full and her other expenses were paid too. Isn’t God faithful? God provided for her in time of need. Wouldn’t you like to have a similar experience where God provided in your time of need? His love and faithfulness are sure.
Read: Psalm 25:1-2; Jeremiah 17:7-8
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 27:1-6; Mark 9:33-50; Mark 10:1-12; Leviticus 1; Leviticus 2; Leviticus 3
