Grief

 but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love;
Lamentations 3:32 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/lam.3.32.ESV

The Bible is unequivocal about the sovereignty of God, even in the midst of grievous circumstances. Yet it also insists that God is no sadist, but feels for us in our sorrows. How do we know? Because Jesus reveals God's heart for us.

What the writer of Lamentations confidently asserted, Christ clearly revealed in His first advent on earth. We're told He was moved with compassion for the crowds who thronged around Him, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who seeks after His lost sheep.

How do we know God abundantly loves us with an eternal love? Because Christ died for us. Not only so, but He rose again, victorious over all that would grieve us.

God's love isn't impotent. His love is enough to overcome our great enemy satan, and to carry us safe to the new creation. In the meantime, we have to trust Him in the midst of sorrows.

'Loving Father in heaven, please help us to rely on Your love even and especially in the hard times. In the gracious name of Christ, amen'

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