Advent Devotional: Make Room for JesusSample

Day 21: Make Room for Love

Throughout the Bible we read of God’s unfailing love. That phrase is translated from the Hebrew word “checed” which carries with it meanings of strength, steadfastness and mercy. It is used mostly in the Old Testament before Jesus’ birth because the Lord had made a covenant with His people. They clung to that promise while they waited for the Messiah to come.

"Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
Your righteousness is like the highest mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
They feast on the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights.
For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light. Continue your love to those who know you,
your righteousness to the upright in heart."- Psalm 36:5-10 (NLT)

David wrote this Psalm to meditate on the priceless treasure He had found in God’s love. When you read this passage you do not hear David boast in his riches or resources. Even though he was a wealthy man, David acknowledged that the thing He treasured most was the unfailing love of God. This love sustained him. This love covered him. This love guided him. David declared that God’s love gave him the ability to be able to move forward in trust no matter what was going on around him. Wouldn’t you like to know that you will have everything you need? Wouldn’t it be great to know that you are protected no matter what was going on? Wouldn’t you want the ability to see clearly even though it may appear dark and hopeless? This is all possible and available to you because of God’s love!

The gift of God’s unfailing love gives us deep assurance. It’s a gift that has no price tag. It never fails and promises to strengthen us when we need it most.

Reflect:

• From the Psalm 36 passage, which description of God's love resonates with you the most and why?
• How does understanding that God’s love is unconditional shape the way you view His character?
• Reflect on a time when you experienced God’s love in a way you desperately needed. How did experiencing His unfailing love shape your faith?

Pray:

Read Psalm 36:5-10 again but this time read the words as a prayer to God. Add some of your own descriptions of how you have seen God's love and provision in your life.