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Have you ever felt you’ve strayed too far from God’s embrace? In moments of doubt, it’s natural to question whether our missteps have distanced us irrevocably from His love. Yet, the truth is, we can always return to God, for He has never left our side. Nothing we have done, nor will do, can alter His unwavering presence and devotion to us.
In Nehemiah 9:17, amidst the struggles of the Israelites as they sought to reconstruct their lives, they reaffirmed their faith with these words:
“But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”
Today’s verse was a beacon of hope for the Israelites, who were returning from exile, laden with the weight of their ancestors’ sins. Despite their past disobedience, they were reminded that God’s forgiveness and steadfast love had never faltered.
Imagine yourself in this historical context. You stand amidst the rubble of Jerusalem, the only life you’ve known is one of captivity. The stories of your forefathers’ disobedience and the ancient laws feel like distant echoes. Yet, as you pray with your community, these words of God’s enduring love and forgiveness are spoken, and hope ignites within you. The message is clear—God has never forsaken you.
Consider how home renovation shows lovingly restore a dilapidated house. The workers renewa an old, forsaken property, giving it fresh life and value. Similarly, God is the ultimate restorer—He does not discard us; He transforms us. He’s the master Carpenter who tenderly rebuilds our spirit, showing us our true value and potential. No matter how lost you may feel, God has not, and will never, give up on you.
Loving God, thank You that it’s never too late to return to You. In this broken, pain-filled world, may Your work in my life point others to You. Please help me trust You with rebuilding my life. Give me peace and confidence that the best is yet to come in my life—because of You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Listen now to the short version of this Abide meditation, “Return to God’s Loving Arms,” based on Nehemiah 9:17. Let God speak to your heart about how you can always return to God because He has never left you.
Let Abide be your daily companion whether you need to return to God’s loving arms, or you’ve never left His side. Our more than 1500 biblical meditations all exist to keep you close to Him. Download the app and start a premium subscription. This will gain you access to our entire library of content. Use this link for 25% off.
