A Hope Eternal - Advent DevotionalSample

During this season of Advent, we anticipate the celebration of the Incarnation of God the Son, who dwelt among us to seek and save the lost. Centuries before the birth of the Christ child in Bethlehem, David reminds us of God's readiness to spiritually restore humanity in Psalm 86:15.

Throughout this psalm (86), when confronted by those who opposed God (verse 14b), David emphasized not only his pleas (verses 1-4, 6) and petitions (verses 2, 11, 16, 17), but he also repeatedly appealed to the nature of God (verses 5, 8, 10, 11, 15). Among these latter statements, verse 15 stands out due to its rich theological concepts. These terms are specifically drawn from the spiritual restoration of Israel in Exodus 34:6, following the golden calf incident (Exodus 32).

After Moses’ extraordinary prayer of intercession on behalf of Israel in Exodus 33:12-16, the LORD revealed Himself anew to Moses with these familiar words: “The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness" (Exodus 34:6). In Psalm 86:15, David clearly recalled the same theological truths revealed to Moses in Exodus 34:6. David’s recollection of God’s provision to Israel after their infidelity in Exodus 32 is a reminder to us of God’s unchanging relentless love and grace to humanity, which we anticipate during the season of Advent.

From generation to generation, God remains the gracious and reliable Deliverer, whose provision of His Son is the pinnacle of the “good news that will cause great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10). During this season of Advent, we expectantly await the celebration of the Incarnation in faith, as we also anticipate the return of Christ in victory at the Second Coming.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we exalt Your name for all the blessings we enjoy in Christ Jesus by the Holy Spirit. You remain the compassionate God, abounding in love from generation to generation of humanity who are lost without a Savior. For Your steadfast faithfulness throughout the ages, we exalt Your name as we expectantly await the celebration of the great gift of Your Son to us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Kevin Spawn, D.Phil., serves as associate professor of Biblical Studies and director of the Master’s Programs for the Regent University School of Divinity.