Isn’t chapter 3 great? I come to it when I’m overwhelmed by emotions, whether it’s shame, grief, guilt or just unexplained sorrow.

It reminds us that God is good, even in suffering.

“Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning.” 3:23

He is a Good Father, disciplining us out of his love for us and through his perfect mercy.

“For no one is abandoned by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion because of the greatness of his unfailing love. For he does not enjoy hurting people or causing them sorrow.” 3:31-33 (Okay, if these people can have the faith to come to that conclusion in the midst of life-crushing consequences, we all can.)

It points us towards repentance. 

“…why should we, mere humans, complain when we are punished for our sins? Instead, let us test and examine our ways. Let us turn back to the Lord. “ 3:39-40

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God’s mercies are new every morning. We start fresh with him when we repent. He doesn’t hold things over our heads or punish us for forgiven sins. Come to him, repent and put on his forgiveness.

This is how we should respond to other people’s sin as well. Don’t let sin snowball. Forgive them and offer new mercies every day. 

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Tomorrow we will start the book of Hosea!

-Carly