#BoldBeliefDevotional by Paul Natekin
“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.” — Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)
Ever felt like you’re stuck in a rut, especially when those New Year’s resolutions fall flat by February? You’re not alone. Life has a way of reminding us we’re not perfect. But here’s the thing: every morning, when you wake up, God gives you a new chance. Just like your phone’s screen time resets daily, so does God’s grace.
Apologetic Insight:
(from Greek ἀπολογία, apología, ‘speaking in defense’) Defending and explaining faith with reason and evidence.
Let’s dive into what this means for us. Dr. Timothy Keller, in his book “The Prodigal God,” reflects on this aspect of God’s character: “The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.” This insight reminds us that our failures don’t define us. Instead, God’s grace, like a daily reset, gives us the opportunity to start anew.
Imagine if you had a phone app that not only tracked your screen time but also reset your mistakes, your failures, your doubts. That’s essentially what God does every day. His grace isn’t just a one-time deal; it’s a daily gift, a chance to live out the truth of Lamentations 3:22-23. Each morning, we’re reminded that God’s compassions are not just for the New Year but for every single day. This isn’t just a feel-good message; it’s rooted in the very nature of who God is—faithful, loving, and unchanging.
Encouragement & Application:
So, what does this mean for you? It means that even when you mess up or fall short, you don’t have to stay down. God’s grace is your reset button. Here are some ways to embrace this:
- Start your day with gratitude: Thank God for the new day and His faithfulness.
- Reflect on your day: At the end of the day, acknowledge your mistakes, ask for forgiveness, and look forward to the grace of tomorrow.
- Find community: Surround yourself with people who will remind you of God’s daily grace and encourage you to keep moving forward.
Reflection Questions:
- How does knowing that God’s grace is renewed every day change your perspective on your personal failures?
- What practical steps can you take to remind yourself of God’s daily grace when life feels overwhelming?
- How can you share the message of God’s daily grace with someone who might be struggling with their resolutions or life’s challenges?
Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for the gift of a new day and the reminder that Your grace is always there, waiting for me. Help me to see each morning as a fresh start, not just at the beginning of a new year, but every single day. When I feel stuck or discouraged, remind me of Your faithfulness and the new mercies You offer. Guide me in sharing this truth with others, that they might find hope in Your unending love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
YouTube
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
