Not Consumed

Monday, July 27

Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)

“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.”

Devotion

Lamentations was written during a period of profound suffering; yet the writer acknowledges God’s great love and compassion in the midst of all that the Israelites were facing. Sometimes it is in our darkest hours that God shines the brightest. The Scripture says that because of His great love we are not consumed—it doesn’t say that we are rescued from ever having to go through trials. It does say that we are not overtaken by those trials, because of His great Love.

Isaiah 43:2 promises: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.” We still may find ourselves passing through deep waters—for example: places in our lives that we feel like we could drown in sorrow, depression, debt, overwhelming circumstances. We may still walk through the fire, such as fiery darts of evil reports, criticism, betrayal, lies, and deceit, to name a few. Yet the Lord promises to be with us through it all. He loves us too much to let us go through it alone! 

We do not know what each day will bring, but we know that we start each day with renewed hope because of His great Love. His compassion is new each day; His faithfulness is greater than anything the day can bring! God shows up for us in every trial. We can look for His presence in everything that we face, and we can look for His purposes to be accomplished in our lives despite what is thrown at us. He will not allow the situation to consume us if we look to Him. Embrace God’s goodness! Be reminded always of His great love, and take comfort today in the God whose compassion is new every morning!

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, 

Thank You that Your love never fails and Your mercy is new every morning. When I face trials that seem overwhelming, remind me that I am not alone and that I will not be consumed because You are with me. Help me to trust in Your faithfulness, fix my eyes on Your presence, and rest in the hope You provide each new day. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Whatever you're facing today, take a moment to thank God for one evidence of His faithfulness. Instead of focusing on the size of your trial, choose to focus on the greatness of His love and trust that His new mercies are enough to carry you through. 

Resources

• Sometimes the hardest part of a new season is taking the first step. The good news is that God goes before you. Watch this short clip, "God Will Lead You Into Your New Season," and be encouraged to trust His direction.
• God has a way of bringing beauty from brokenness and hope from hardship. Join one of our Fall Online Support Groups by texting SUPPORT to 510510 or visiting freechapel.org/discipleship. Your new season starts here.