The open bible for devotion

Devotion – February 2021

Making All Things New

I saw a photo a few weeks ago. It was of a lady who lived in northern New South Wales. She was a farmer and had taken a photo standing in a paddock on her property. It was a side-by-side shot 12 months apart. The first photo had a background of bright orange. It was of a dust storm that had ripped through her town. Her face had a disgusted look and her hair was wind-blown. The photo 12 months later was quite a contrast. She was standing in the same spot, but this time it was a sunny day, and the paddock was full of green grass and her face was one of pure joy! Quite a contrast! What a difference just 12 months can make! When we are in the midst of the storm though, the resolution or ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ can be difficult to see.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

This verse is a wonderful reminder that, although the world around us may change, our God and his love never does. What is even more incredible about these verses is where we find them in the Bible. These verses are in the book of Lamentations, a book of sorrow and mourning after the destruction of the temple. God’s people are grieving, they feel lost and alone. But, the writer of the book reminds them, and us today, that no matter what the circumstances, God’s love never changes, his mercies are new every morning and God is faithful.

As we start this new “morning” of 2021, we might be tempted to worry and despair. The year 2020 was certainly unlike any I have experienced, and the thought of isolation and illness for another 12 months can have me filled with fear and dread. But, as I read these verses again, I am reminded that our God is a good God and his mercies never end. Despite our circumstances, we can rest in the assurance of his love and forgiveness, his care and grace. So, let’s step into 2021 with confidence and hope, that God is faithful and makes all things new!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the hope and joy a new start can bring. Help me to look for opportunities to rejoice and be glad. I pray for this year ahead and ask that you would renew me and remind me once again of your unfailing love, everlasting mercies, and faithfulness to us. Amen.


About the Author

Elise von Stanke

Hi, my name is Elise, and I am currently living in Newcastle, NSW. I am married to Mathew, who is the pastor at LifeWay Lutheran Church, Newcastle. We have three gorgeous children, Lily (10), Aaron (7), and Noah (3). I am a Primary School teacher, who loves music, making things with fabric, felt and wool and having conversations over coffee. I also love sharing the amazing news of Jesus’ love and hearing others share their experiences with me.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *