The season of Lent began February 21 as we prepare to observe Easter. Lent is a season that helps us focus on our mortality and sinfulness. But it is not intended to bring guilt and shame; rather, it is to help us give thanks for what Jesus has done for us in setting us free. Here is a devotion that helps us start this season of remembrance:

IN WORD In a secular society, depression statistics rise dramatically. Suicide rates soar. Anger, bitterness, and hopelessness are evident in the cultural expressions of our times. Why? There is often a missing ingredient in the psyche of modern man: the love of God. Whenever we take retribution into our own hands; seek to feed ourselves with substances or ideas that only soothe bruised egos; become envious, strive to get ahead, or lose hope; we have forgotten this missing ingredient.
The love of God renders all of our false emotions pointless. Think about your emotional tendencies. Don’t most of our behavioral problems and psychological flaws come from an insecurity deep within? But if we, the redeemed, were thoroughly convinced of God’s love—the unflinching goodness which He has shown us since the dawn of creation—then we would lose the basis of nearly every one of our insecurities. Those who have immersed themselves in the immeasurable love of God are wise indeed—and extremely secure. They have no need to envy; no desire for revenge; no reason to fear; no time for pettiness; and no cause for self-promotion.
Read Psalm 107. Are you wandering in a wasteland (v. 4)? Are you suffering in chains (v. 10)? Have you been rebellious (v. 17)? Has the tempest threatened your safety (v. 25)? The wise response is found in verses 6, 13, 19, and 28: “They cried out to the LORD in their trouble.” The result is always deliverance, at least by His definition if not ours. Why? Because God’s love is unfailing. This psalm alone says so five times. The Word could not be more emphatic.
IN DEED Human nature tells us to hide when we’re in trouble. God’s Word tells us to cry out to Him. Following God’s Word is infinitely wiser than following fallen human nature. The next time you’re in distress, cling to one unalterable fact: the unfailing love of God for His redeemed. “God does not love us because we are valuable. We are valuable because He loves us.” – Fulton John Sheen (in “Walking with God” by Chris Tiegreen)

When we face our mortality and our human weaknesses, it is easy to enter into depression because it seems that we are limited by our failings. But if we understand God’s steadfast love, a love that is manifested by Jesus’ death and resurrection, we have hope realized and are truly set free.
Take time to reflect on Psalm 107 this week and ask the Holy Spirit to help you experience anew God’s unfailing love. Have a blessed week! - from Singapore, Pastor Sam