Read: Lamentations 3:21-33
The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. (v. 22)
In the ESV translation of the Bible, the adjective translated steadfast is used to describe God’s love for us about 200 times. If you look up the word steadfast in a dictionary or two, you will find definitions such as “unchangeable,” “firmly fixed in place,” “unwavering,” “firm in purpose,” “loyal,” and “immovable.”
In our reading today, we see that God’s steadfast love for us is unceasing—it never ends. That is hard for us humans to understand—we are so accustomed to everything ending. Chapters in our lives close, years go by, relationships change, our bodies age, and someday, our human life in this world will end. But God’s love for us lasts forever. This love “never ceases” (v. 22), which connotes a relational attachment that’s consistent, constant, and steady. Like gravity, God’s love is always present on earth, and we are always affected by its pull. It doesn’t fade in and out with time or circumstances.
God’s love for us is unceasing and unconditional regardless of who we are, what we have done, what our life experiences are, what we think, or whether we even believe God loves us. His steadfast love for us is a fact, not a feeling. We can depend on it like nothing else in this world. Over the next two weeks, we’ll seek to further understand what God’s steadfast love is, what it means to us, and how we’re compelled to respond as we grasp onto these truths. —Donna Harold
As you pray, ask God to reveal to you his unceasing steadfast love.
About the Author
Donna M. Harold is retired from a career in accounting and consulting and lives in Tampa, Florida, with her husband and two cats. She serves as treasurer for her church, creates and facilitates Bible studies, and enjoys writing, mosaicking, and quilting.
