Thus says the LORD: “The people who survived the sword found grace in the wilderness; when Israel sought for rest, the LORD appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.
Jeremiah 31:2-3
Father God, as I reflect upon this year I must confess there have been instances of strife and hardships. I have found myself many times in the midst of conflict, often wondering how I will get through it. There have been those who have risen up against me, seeking to tear me down. There have been those who have placed before me obstacles, leaving me in many instances in situations where I have wondered whether I will get through. Yet, this day my soul rejoices because in the midst of that wilderness I can say with certainty that I have been the recipient of Your grace. What others meant for evil You meant for my good. When I felt overwhelmed and overburdened You showed up and gave me a respite from my struggles. You made what was a wilderness experience a spiritual oasis, enabling me to rest in Your shadow and drink from Your refreshing wellspring of life. You indeed have loved me, and not as man has loved me. You have loved me with an everlasting love that springs up from eternity past and will last into eternity future. Because of this love You have continued to demonstrate Your faithfulness towards me. And not because I deserved it. But because You love me. Today, I give You praise, thanking You for all that You have done for me this year. Thank You for never leaving me but always faithfully walking beside me, even when I didn’t know it. Thank You for not giving up on me but instead continuing Your good work within me so that I would not just be a hearer but more so a doer of Your Word. Thank You for saving me by Christ’s precious blood, His act of love changing not only my present but also my future. LORD, I praise You this day, eternally grateful for all You have done for me. Thank You for bringing me out of my wilderness into Your light. Amen!