A Father's Heart of Compassion

Isn't it wonderful when a friend helps you with a difficult project or walks through a tough season with you? We all need friends like that but imagine if that was something God was always doing for you.

Then I said to you, “Do not be terrified; do not be afraid of them. The LORD your God, who is going before you, will fight for you, as he did for you in Egypt, before your very eyes, and in the wilderness. There you saw how the LORD your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place.” (Deuteronomy 1:29-31 NIV)

I find these verses very encouraging, particularly because they are written to a people in rebellion. The nation of Israel had been in captivity for a long time, they'd had a traumatic escape and then a forty year journey through the wilderness. A journey made much longer because of their persistent rebellion.

Of course, there were consequences for that rebellion. In these few sentences we read of the nature and personality of the One to whom all this rebellion had been against. For forty years he had provided their daily food, their clothes and shoes did not wear out, he provided warmth at night and guided them on the journey each and every day. What a comparison of faithfulness to ingratitude.

Despite the pride, rebellion and independence God truly had been a Father to his people. It is, however, God's tenderness and compassion that always strikes me. He has reached down, picked up his rebellious children and been the One who has carried them ALL the way. As he did for them so he will do for you. Whatever challenges you face today let him carry you, not only your burdens - but you.