March 1

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who by grace has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good word and deed. — 2 Thess 2:16-17 BSB

When the Lord is pleased to apply a promise, drop in a word of encouragement, or speak directly with power, He brings consolation. It comforts the downcast heart and speaks peace to a guilty conscience. This consolation is "everlasting," because it flows from an eternal source—the infinite love of God—and leads to an everlasting ocean of joy. Any assurance of a saving interest in God's eternal love is a blessing beyond all value, for the Lord never gives such assurance without it being a sure pledge and foretaste of eternal happiness. He cannot disappoint or deceive. Once blessed, forever blessed.

Even though we may lose the comfort for a long time and fall into deep darkness and confusion, losing sight of nearly all our evidences, the foundation of God stands firm—"The Lord knows those who are His." The river of eternal love may seem to pass by without touching us, as the banks are high, and the stream is hidden from view. But if it has ever watered our soul, one day it will overflow as "waters to swim in" full of eternal joy.