ODJ: Unwavering Love

January 14, 2017 

READ: Psalm 103:1-22 

The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him (v.13).

Yesterday I spoke with a couple whose son became severely ill when he was just five years old. With raw emotions, the husband and wife described how their child collapsed—and their subsequent mad dash to the hospital.

Test results ultimately revealed he has type 1 diabetes, a destructive disease that takes a hard toll on a person’s body,requiring him to use insulin for the rest of his life (barring the discovery of a cure!).

As my friends have lovingly cared for their child and ensured he never misses glucose tests and insulin shots, they’ve gained insight into the truth of Psalm 103:13, which says, “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him” (esv).

This trial has shown them the depth of love for their child, and brought them closer to their heavenly Father, who “is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love” (v.8). God demonstrates His compassion for us in that He “gives righteousness and justice to all who are treated unfairly” (v.6); “will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever” (v.9); “does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve” (v.10); and “has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west” (v.12).

Despite the pain and challenges, my friends and their son are quick to testify to God’s compassion, unfailing love, and His salvation (v.17). And just as they would never forget their son and his needs, they know that God remembers and cares for them (Isaiah 49:15-16).

On the days when we’re weary and the trials mount, may we also find our hope and joy in the unwavering love of our faithful heavenly Father.

—Roxanne Robbins

365-day plan: Genesis 24:1-27