Throughout the Old Testament, we read of God’s people walking with Him, and then going far astray, and then coming back, and then going astray, over and over again. The ninth chapter of the Old Testament book of Nehemiah records highlights of this cycle, and we see that no matter how many times it repeats, God is always faithful. He is always there waiting for His children to come home. That is why, as they looked back over their history as a people, with a collective voice, they spoke to God:

“…you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and full of unfailing love and mercy. You did not abandon them, even though… they sinned and committed terrible blasphemies.”

– Nehemiah 9:17-18 (New Living Translation)

And knowing that God is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8), each one of us can confidently speak those same words as our OWN testimony of God’s love TODAY. He looks upon you with unfailing love and mercy. He has never abandoned you. He never will.

Satan doesn’t want you to think that, though. He would rather plant twisted words in our minds: "Your God is unforgiving, mean, angry with you, having long abandoned you because of your sin and terrible acts against him." LIES!! Peter warned us: “Be careful! Watch out for attacks from the Devil, your great enemy. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 – New Living Translation)

Satan’s lies and deception cannot stand up against the truth, though. If he tries to drag you down and make you think God has left you or that He doesn’t love you, just remind him: "My God is a god of forgiveness, graciousness, and mercy, slow to become angry, full of unfailing love and mercy. He has never abandoned me, even though I have sinned against Him."

1 John 4:8 states it plainly: God is love. Wherever you are, whatever you’ve done, never forget.

Thank You, Lord.