Warrior Truth: “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 v 22-23 ESV
After a busy few weeks (working weeks and weekends), I am acutely aware of the limits that exist both in the physical and psychological. Each and every day we make decisions about where, how and with or for whom we will spend our time and share our resources. Each and every day, for each life role we play (parent, partner, employee, leader, colleague or other) we choose how we will show up, what we will contribute and how we will prepare. If we choose wisely, we are certain to feel and be rewarded in multiple ways. Thanked, praised, recognised, encouraged, and complemented (often echoing on long after that initial moment of investment).
But sometimes, our best efforts go unnoticed or are simply not acknowledged or are poorly acknowledged (albeit not necessarily intentionally). We feel unseen, overlooked, dismissed, used and cast aside. Our hearts bear the brunt even if we are able to outwardly brush aside the slight. The temptation to withdraw, count your losses perhaps and move on is real, but not always possible.
As I compared the events of my weeks, I am grateful for the many moments of rich reward I can count. For the few that did leave me questioning whether my investment in effort was worth it, I am thankful for mercy that flows to me and through me so that I can say, tomorrow, I will try again.
Warrior Tool: There is little doubt in my mind that the author of Lamentations was not in good space – he describes himself as afflicted and wasting away. Midway through this anxious and miserable narrative, light breaks. God’s love and mercy suddenly flood into the text like dawn breaking and hope is restored despite the situation itself still needing to change. When we shift our gaze from the problems to our Heavenly Father, our perspective changes. Instead of misery and defeat, we can look full into His glory and grace. What a powerful tool!
Prayer: Lord, thank you that your mercies are made new every morning. Thank you that no matter what I had to face yesterday and what threatens me today, your love, mercy, and grace are always my portion strengthening me and giving me hope. As I turn my eyes to You Lord and look into your wonderful face, thank you that the things of the world grow strangely dim in the light of your glory and grace. Lord, each day my hope is in you. Amen
With God, For His Glory