Quiet Contemplation - Day 34

Psalm 91:4 (NIV)

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

Lamentations 3:21-23 (NIV)

Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: 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.

            Today, I have on my mind the many people who are suffering loss of friends or loved ones. Perhaps the loss was from COVID-19, accident, aging, medical reason, or any reason at all. The reason does not lessen how much we miss them. I too, have said untimely good-byes to many loved ones and friends—too many. So how do we cope? When grief sneaks in and tries to consume us, I find hope in the verses above.

However, there is something you should notice: Psalm 91:4 states, “his faithfulness” will be your shield and rampart. I think this might be where we get confused. Too often we think it depends on our faith, and if we are still grieving, then it must be because we didn’t have enough faith. That is not what the passages says! It is God’s faithfulness to those who call out to him; and friends, God’s faithfulness never waivers. God’s love is consistent. God’s compassions never fail. And praise God, he is not dependent on our measure of stability. It is we who are dependent upon his ultimate stability. It is in God that we find comfort from loss. His mercies are new every single day and we are able to call to him in prayer every single day, many times a day and whenever we need that gentle push to move forward. He is faithful to respond.

This is a huge topic, and one with which many people face each day. I never know for sure where the Lord will guide me in writing, but as of now, I believe tomorrow we may explore the process of letting go and moving forward.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            So many people are missing their loved ones today. You are their strength and hope. You are the source of comfort and the promise of resurrection. In you we place our trust.

            In Christ’s name, Amen

Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with thee;

Thou changest not, thy compassions they fail not; As thou hast been thou forever wilt be.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

(Thomas O. Chisholm, 1866-)

Respectfully written and submitted by

Dotty Willmon, Resurrection Christian—looking for the blessed hope of Christ’s return!