New Every Morning

“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.” – Lamentations 3:22-23

On the outside, Ned’s life looked good. He was a caring husband to his wife and a doting father to his three sons. He actively participated in his community, helped out at his church, and he shared his resources with others less fortunate.

But night after night, Ned came home from work and drank. It had started as an innocent habit, having a beer after work. It was his way to unwind. But as time passed, Ned needed more and more beers to feel relaxed.

Eventually, Ned started discreetly sneaking sips of alcohol in between phone calls at the office where he worked. He also began missing his children’s events and practices. His wife urged him to see a counselor who specialized in substance abuse.

But Ned refused and eventually, he was fired for drinking on the job. Then a few weeks later, he picked up his kids from school while he was drunk. Upon learning this, his wife moved out and took the kids with her.

Distraught Ned reached out to his local pastor. He poured out the whole truth and begged for advice. “What do I do? I’ve been this way so long that I don’t think God wants me anymore.”

Ned’s pastor reminded him of Lamentations 3:22-23. “God has new mercy for you every single day, Ned. He never grows tired of you and He never gives up. You need to make changes in your life but with God’s help, you can overcome this.”

God, help me to remember that You are full of mercy and tenderness toward Your children. Let me feel that mercy in my own life and extend it to others, too. In Jesus’ name, Amen.