Devotionals for the Heart: God's faithfulness to all of humankind

The Steadfast and Unchanging Love of God
A devotional by Dr. Gladys Childs

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”—Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

Looking back on my life, I see God’s faithfulness: His overtures of grace as I accepted Jesus Christ at age 14. Fulfilling His promise not to give us more than we can bear by removing the weight of despair and stilling my heart in a time of chaos. Redeeming countless situations in my life…and the list continues. Great is God’s faithfulness!

God's faithfulness is His unwavering commitment to His promises and unchanging character. It means God can always be relied upon to fulfill what He has promised, to be true to His Word, and never to forsake His people. His faithfulness is demonstrated throughout The Holy Bible in countless stories of His provision, protection, and guidance for those who trust Him. Even when circumstances seem uncertain or challenging, God remains steadfast in His love and care for His creation.

In challenging times, God's faithfulness shines through in His unwavering presence, strength, and guidance for those who trust Him. Take Joseph, for example, who remained faithful to God even amidst betrayal by his brothers and unjust imprisonment in Egypt. His story reminds us that God never forsakes His people. This faithfulness encourages us to endure, knowing He is with us and working for our good, even when circumstances seem bleak. It teaches us to lean on His promises and trust His unfailing support.

But God's faithfulness is not confined to mere presence and support; it extends to His sovereignty and His overarching plan for our lives. Just as Job remained steadfast in faith throughout his trials, we are assured that God is in control, orchestrating all things for our ultimate good, even when we struggle to perceive His hand at work. This understanding strengthens our resolve and deepens our trust in Him.

Moreover, God's faithfulness reveals His character of unchanging love, compassion, and commitment to His people. Just as King David experienced God's faithfulness throughout the highs and lows of his life, we too can deepen our understanding of who God is and strengthen our faith in Him. His faithfulness is a constant anchor in the storms of life, reminding us of His unwavering presence and care.

Furthermore, God's faithfulness in trials leads to growth and transformation in our lives. As we depend on Him and witness His faithfulness firsthand, our faith is fortified, our character is refined, and our relationship with God deepens. We learn to entrust our worries to His capable hands and to rely entirely on His provision. Through every trial, His faithfulness remains a beacon of hope, guiding us through the darkest times.

God's faithfulness also teaches us the value of perseverance and patience. Despite our challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, knowing that God is faithful to see us through. Like the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, our endurance leads to spiritual maturity and growth. In every trial and tribulation, His faithfulness sustains us and gives us the strength to press on.

In conclusion, as we reflect on Lamentations 3:22-23, we are reminded of the enduring faithfulness of our Lord. His steadfast love and unfailing mercies are not confined to a single moment. Still, they are renewed every morning, a testament to His unchanging character and unwavering commitment to His people. In the face of uncertainty and trials, we can take refuge in the assurance of God's faithfulness, knowing He remains constant in His love and provision. Let us hold fast to this truth and find comfort in the knowledge that His faithfulness endures forever.

Let’s Pray:
Dear Lord, thank You for your unwavering faithfulness, which sustains us through every trial and triumph. Help us to respond to your faithfulness with grateful hearts, trusting in your promises, and obeying your commands. May our lives testify to your faithfulness as we share with others the ways you have shown yourself faithful in our lives. Empower us to live each day in service to you, bringing glory to your name in all we do. In Jesus’s name, I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection: “He’s Always Been Faithful” by Sara Groves. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Dr. Gladys Childs is an author, speaker, religion professor, pastor's wife, and mom helping others be F.R.E.E. to Thrive© for the abundant life God has for them. She serves as Chaplain at Texas Wesleyan University and the Women’s Director at LifePoint Fellowship. She brings 25 years of experience and knowledge to her ministry. 

Gladys is frequently called authentic, witty, and candid as she shares her journey through life’s ups and downs. Her passion is meeting people at the intersection of faith and life’s difficulties. No stranger to heartache herself, she grew up in a non-church-going family with an alcoholic mother and is a trauma survivor.

Gladys holds a Ph.D. in Foundations of Education, a Master’s in Religious Education, a Master of Divinity, and a B.A. with a double major in Counseling and Psychology. Also, she is an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church.

~*~
Connect with Gladys:
Website: https://www.gladyschilds.com/
Blog: https://www.gladyschilds.com/blog
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgladyschilds/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GladysAnnChilds
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GladysChilds
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/gladyschildsauthor/