Day 303 - His Mercies are New Every Morning!

Today's Reading: Lam. 3-5 and John 20

The world may be falling apart around us, the church may appear to be falling apart around us, and life may not look that promising... That's how Jeremiah felt and that's why the book of Lamentations was written. But there's still hope!

Jeremiah found that hope, and we can too...

"THIS I recall to mind, therefore have I hope," he writes. "It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD." (Lam 3:21-26)

What beautiful promises! I love the corresponding thoughts from Inspiration:

When called to drink of the cup of tribulation and sorrow, and when tempted in his misery to say, “My strength and my hope is perished from the Lord,” he recalled the providences of God in his behalf and triumphantly exclaimed, “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in Him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.” Lamentations 3:18, 22-26. (Prophets and Kings, p. 421)

In another place, Ellen White writes:

None who receive God’s word are exempt from difficulty and trial; but when affliction comes, the true Christian does not become restless, distrustful, or despondent. Though we can not see the definite outcome of affairs, or discern the purpose of God’s providences, we are not to cast away our confidence. Remembering the tender mercies of the Lord, we should cast our care upon Him, and with patience wait for His salvation. Through conflict the spiritual life is strengthened. Trials well borne will develop steadfastness of character and precious spiritual graces. The perfect fruit of faith, meekness, and love often matures best amid storm clouds and darkness. (Christ Object Lessons, p. 61)

So thankful that His mercies are new every morning, and in the struggles and lamentations, our faith can grow as we hold on to Him.

Tomorrow's Reading: Ezek. 1 and John 21