Daily EncouragementSample

God’s relationship with his people is a covenant relationship, and his covenant is a covenant of love. A theologian’s comment is helpful here: “The covenant is a key biblical notion around which much of the teaching on God’s love is gathered . . . The central Old Testament covenant is with Abraham and it reaches its full development in the New Covenant in Christ . . . The Hebrew word for grace is a covenant term implying loyal love, or steadfast love” (Bruce Milne). God’s covenant is a covenant of grace. His love is not impressed by numbers: “The Lord did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples;” his love is love unmerited, redeeming love, ever true to his promises: “But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath he swore to your forefathers that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you” (Deut. 7:7-8). To reflect on this covenant relationship brings assurance and encouragement to the believer: He by Himself has sworn; I on his oath depend: I shall on eagle’s wings upborne, To heaven ascent: I shall behold his face, I shall his power adore, And sing the wonders of his grace For evermore. (Thomas Olivers)