Correct Without Rejecting

Jeremiah 31 gives us one of the most beautiful pictures of our Heavenly Father's heart. Israel had repeatedly turned away from God, yet He never abandoned them. Instead He declares: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness." (Jeremiah 31:3) What an extraordinary Father we worship! His love is not dependent on our perfect behaviour. He loves us while teaching us obedience – He corrects, but does not reject; He disciplines, but His heart stays tender. God says of Ephraim: "Is not Ephraim my dear son, the child in whom I delight? Though I often speak against him, I still remember him. Therefore my heart yearns for him; I have great compassion for him." (Jeremiah 31:20) What a powerful example for parents and spiritual family alike. We may need to challenge behaviour, but we should never withdraw love. We can disagree with someone's choices without making them feel rejected. When our children or spiritual family stumble, may they experience our compassion rather than condemnation, our forgiveness rather than a record of failures, and our hope for who they can become. The heart of God says: "I may oppose what you are doing, but I will never stop loving you." May we become fathers, mothers and spiritual leaders who reflect this extraordinary Father's heart. (Nicky B). Open Bible – bit.ly/Jere31, bit.ly/Jer31v3, bit.ly/Jer31v20