November 5

What Is Painful Will End

For I will not accuse you forever, nor will I always be angry; for then the spirit of man would grow weak before Me, with the breath of those I have made. — Isa 57:16 BSB

Our heavenly Father seeks to teach us, not destroy us. His corrections are meant for our good. He won’t always remain in conflict with us. We think God’s chastisements are long because our patience is short. His compassion endures forever, but His discipline does not. The night of suffering may feel endless, but it will eventually give way to the brightness of day. His correction is only for a time, and the wrath that brings it is brief. The Lord loves His people too much to stay angry with them forever.

If He dealt with us continuously as He sometimes does, we would be crushed and fall into despair. But take heart! The Lord will soon end His rebuke. Be strong, for the Lord will strengthen you and carry you through. He knows how weak we are and how little we can bear. He will treat us tenderly, as He knows how fragile we are. So don’t be afraid of the current pain, for it will soon lead to joy. He who has chastised you will heal you, and His momentary wrath will be followed by overwhelming mercy.