SWHW Bible Reading Plan: August 2021Sample

Top Takeaway from Sarah Martin:

I don’t want to be separated from God.

I don’t want YOU to be separated from Him, either.

Not one inch in the span of this lifetime or in the length of eternity.

The writer of Lamentations, Jeremiah, didn’t want that either. He wept and pleaded with God for mercy on Israel for their sin and idolatry. He declared back to God what he knew of God’s character: mercy and faithfulness. 

And Jeremiah is right! This Scripture is often quoted (and sung!) to find comfort during hard times. While it certainly speaks to peace and comfort, the original context is toward a reminder back to God; that even though Israel grievously sinned, God is still loving and merciful even within the bounds of consequences for sin.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;

his mercies never come to an end;

they are new every morning;

great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-24

What if the most loving thing we could do for ourselves and for others is to get real about sin? What if the most loving thing we could say is to talk about what keeps us from the fullness of our loving God?

Glossing over sin is glossing over grace.

Glossing over grace is a slap in the face of the One who died to bring us back to what God originally intended for His beloved creation.

Covered in abundant love and with humility, it’s time to get real about sin. The Bible is very clear that sin separates us from God and from His fullness. 

But do we hold God Himself in value and high regard? 

My fear is that we don’t. Not even the Church. We don’t fear separation. We don’t fear wrath. We don’t value righteousness and holiness which is God’s nature and what He values. 

So much is at stake. It’s not time to play. And it’s not too late. Because sin and separation is not how the story ends.  

• Jesus died on the cross to save us from sin that separates us from God Himself. 


• Jesus rose from the grave in victory over the enemy that wants to keep us from fullness in the presence of our Good Father. 


• Jesus is coming again, and we get to see our Lord face to face. Ultimate joy. Ultimate fulfillment of the original plan of God.

It’s not just a catchphrase…Jesus truly changes everything.

Lord, I confess my sin that displeases You. Thank You for Your forgiveness. Thank You for the cross of Christ. Help me to know and experience Your grace to then turn from that sin and turn toward You in repentance. Amen!