How can Psalm 86:15 encourage us during challenging times? The Heart of Psalm 86:15 “But You, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness.” God’s Compassion When Life Hurts • Compassion means the Lord is moved by our pain, not indifferent to it (Psalm 103:13). • He sees every tear and keeps count of them (Psalm 56:8), assuring us that suffering never goes unnoticed. • Because His compassion is part of His nature, we can bring every anxious thought to Him with confidence (1 Peter 5:7). Grace That Covers Our Failures • “Gracious” declares unearned favor—He stoops to lift us when we stumble (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Even in seasons of repeated mistakes, His grace is greater than our sin (Romans 5:20). • This frees us from shame-driven isolation and invites us into restored fellowship. Patience That Buys Us Time • “Slow to anger” reminds us God is never impulsive or irritable (Nahum 1:3). • His long-suffering allows space for repentance and growth (2 Peter 3:9). • In trials, we can wait on Him without fear of sudden rejection or harsh retaliation. Love That Never Runs Dry • “Abounding in loving devotion” (ḥesed) refers to steadfast covenant love that cannot fail (Lamentations 3:22). • This love is active, pursuing, and protective (Psalm 23:6). • No setback, loss, or weakness can sever us from it (Romans 8:38-39). Faithfulness That Secures Our Future • His faithfulness guarantees He will finish what He started in us (Philippians 1:6). • Promises made are promises kept; not one word from His mouth falls to the ground (Joshua 21:45). • We stand on an unshakable foundation when everything else feels unstable. Walking This Out Today • Recall and recite Psalm 86:15 when fear rises; speak it aloud to realign your heart. • Journal specific moments where you experienced His compassion, grace, patience, love, and faithfulness. • Share a testimony of His steadfast character with someone who is discouraged—encouragement multiplies hope. • Anchor your prayers in these five traits, thanking Him before requests are answered. • Choose a companion verse from the list below to memorize this week. Additional Scriptures for Reinforcement • Exodus 34:6–7 – God’s self-description repeated through Scripture • Psalm 103:8–11 – Echo of the same attributes toward His children • Isaiah 30:18 – The Lord longs to be gracious and rise to show compassion • Lamentations 3:22-23 – His mercies are new every morning • Hebrews 10:23 – Hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful |
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