I received the gift of a new Bible last Christmas. I did not really want a new Bible. I was comfortable with my old one and had written so many notes in it that I hated to lose it. But, it was past time to replace my old one as the clear package sealing tape that held it together was failing. Again.
As it turns out, I am doubly blessed by my new Bible. As I read and study, I am transferring some of my old notes to the new Bible, even as I am adding new ones. So I continue to learn from both. It may take me the rest of my life to finish, but I am having so much fun!
As I read the Psalms, I am copying the attributes of God I had noted in each one. I started noticing how often God’s “unfailing love” is mentioned, so I decided to circle that phrase whenever I read it.
Meditating on the concept of the “unfailing love of God,” I have realized that I have only seen part of this picture. I always thought of this as everlasting, inexhaustible love and always there for me. While that is true, that phrase also means that God’s love will NEVER FAIL ME.
Merriam-Webster says that “unfailing” means infallible, sure, unerring. So, no matter my circumstances,
It goes against the very nature of His love.
In Psalm 17:7, David prays, “Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways.” NLT
What a powerful prayer! When we pray this, it opens our eyes and hearts to be on the lookout for God’s beautiful ways of showing us His love. Then we can shift our attention from our circumstances to the perfect love of our Father. And we can rest in the assurance of that unfailing love. Not just because it feels good to be loved, but because we can trust that His love will not fail us.
So, when God feels far away, when He seems to be taking too long when He is closing doors you hoped would open, ask Him to show you His unfailing love in wonderful ways. Shift your focus and feel the transition in your heart as you take comfort in God’s unfailing love.
And be prepared to experience love in ways more wonderful than you can imagine.
Julie McCoy
CHM Contributor
