The Challenge

Psalms 145:8 NLT reads, “The Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.”

I love this verse because it fills me with hope and reassurance that God is kind, and forgiving, and patient, and compassionate and all loving, and ....the list is endless. All are words describing how he feels and acts toward me. It speaks to me that He knows me and loves me despite me. Why?? Because I am HIS. Bought and paid for. Created in His image, His girl!

The challenge comes with the counter response— Not to him, but with others—I’m so grateful that He feels that way toward me, but do I feel and act the same way towards others?

I am faced with that challenge multiple times a week. So you won’t feel left out, I’m going to include you in the questions that I pose for myself:

**I am merciful? Understanding, or unbending

**Do I respond with compassion? With empathy and sympathy?

**Do I feel compassion for my sister’s situation? Can I put myself in her shoes?

**Am I slow to get angry? With everyone, or just some people?

**Am I FILLED with unfailing love (to the best of my ability) or do I allow excuses, past

hurts, and frustrations taint the way I “love”?

I, as God’s Girl, am up for the challenge! I know it can be difficult at times, but this is a battle I want to win for His Glory. Phil 4:13 says I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE WITH ME?