Psalm 117:1-2

Praise the Lord all nations! Extol him all peoples! For great is his steadfast love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord!

Have you ever experienced an event that changed the course of your life and rocked your world never for it to be the same ever again?

At 41 years old, after 21 years of marriage my husband broke our marriage vows. After a painful year, we were divorced, as he decided he no longer wanted to be married. My world was shaken, I felt paralyzed and went in a serious depression. I could not see past the pain, I felt hopeless and thought everyone would be better off without me. I fell into a pit of despair.

It was in this pit that I first encountered God’s mercy. He met me in the pit and saved me from myself. He walked alongside of me, pulled me out and placed me on His solid ground. He used many people who walked with me and pointed me to the truth of who God is, what Jesus did for me, and how the gospel could transform my life. I have been a child of God for 29 years. I am grateful that He shows me every day that He loves me in spite of me. He has forgiven my past and helped me forgive. That drastic event that made me feel life was over brought me instead to the one who saves! I tried to do it my way and He showed me His way.

Fast forward 29 years. I have recently celebrated 25 years of marriage to a wonderful godly man. Together we have grown in our love for our Savior. There have been many challenges; family relationships, finances, and health issues but He has shown us over and over how faithful He is. His truth and love endure forever! He loved me in the pit, He loves me today and will love me tomorrow. I truly praise the Lord from a grateful heart.

Are you struggling to believe God’s faithfulness in your life? Let’s pray.

Lord, even when we sin, you remain faithful. Thank you for your forgiveness. Help us to reflect on the many times that you have shown us your mercy, and praise you for those times. Help us remember the many times you have shown us your grace, and give you thanks for those moments. Grant that we may extend your mercy, grace, and forgiveness to others. We praise you for your steadfast love that endures forever. We put our faith in you, our unchanging and faithful God!

– Rita Heinz