“They shall be my people, and I will be their God.
I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear me forever, for their own good and the good of their children after them. I will make with them an everlasting covenant that I will never stop doing good to them.” Jer. 32:38-40
Heavenly Father, this passage is a peace-banquet and grace-lottery, a mercy-waterfall and hope-haven all at the same time. You have invited us into the limitless storehouse of your kindness, the inexhaustible riches of the Gospel, and the indefatigable passion of your love. Thank you, and free us from our unbelief.
We want everything you’ve promised in this startling text, beginning with “singleness of heart.” Free us to love you with everything we have and are, Father. Rescue us from nightmares masquerading as dreams—broken cisterns, groundless hopes, and worthless idols. Enthrall our hearts afresh with the beauty of Jesus, and every good thing we have in him.
We want “singleness of action”—seeking first your Kingdom; loving your will above our whims; and choosing your adoration over our being appreciated. Life is too short to fritter away on feeling left out and under celebrated.
We want to “fear you,” Father—now that we’re no longer afraid of you. Through the work of Jesus, you have eternally freed us from the fear of death and judgment. Now, deepen our gospel-astonishment that we might live in joyful awe of you.
Lastly, convince us—over and over again, of your commitment to “never stop doing good to us”—even when it’s a painful “good.” Such a promise is overwhelming, and almost too much to wrap our hearts around.
Everything you do is for our good, and your glory. Even when you discipline us, it’s a kiss from heaven. We believe this, but we long to believe it more, Father. Forgive us when we doubt you. Intensify our delight in you. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ glorious and faithful name.
