“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

I swept the brown needles from the dying Christmas tree into a tidy pile. The smell of fir still wafted through the air, but the discarded tree slumped on the woodpile outside my window, awaiting a bonfire.

As I cleaned, my cell phone chimed several times, alerting me to New Year’s greetings from friends and family. But instead of celebrating, a weight of despair hung heavy on my shoulders. In all the newness, nothing had changed in my painful circumstances––not in that year, nor the preceding years.

The pain of chronic illness lingered, financial difficulty loomed, and my mental health was at an all-time low. I thought, When will I get to experience new wonders?

Several years have passed since that day. I peer back at myself, gathering discarded fir needles, and wish to whisper words of hope into my ears. Breaking through the fog of disappointment, I want to tell myself that God is faithful.

He is steadfast through changing seasons––and He is faithful in the unchanging seasons. And yet, I know deep in my heart I believed this. For this truth––and the unwavering love of Jesus––carried me through those times when my circumstances remained the same.

Perhaps you put your Christmas tree and its decorations to rest. You’ve watched the clock strike midnight and usher in 2024, but find yourself slogging through the same trial of pain, heartache, and dismay. Joy in the newness is hard to uncover.

Take courage, sweet soul. Even when struggles seem unending, God’s mercies are new each and every day. His love for us is not dependent on the season, circumstances, or us. God’s love is true and sure. We can celebrate the new mercies of Jesus now and throughout the year.

Prayer

Lord, sometimes it is hard to hold on to hope in unending hardship. Pour hope into my heart. Thank You for reminding me of Your great love for me. I will trust You with today and tomorrow. May Your new mercies wash over me in this new year. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

This devotion first appeared in Ready to Flourish, a 31-day devotional to encourage your heart in the new year.