"Is Ephraim My dear son? Is he a pleasant child? For though I spoke against him, I earnestly remember him still; Therefore My heart yearns for him; I will surely have mercy on him, says the LORD." Jeremiah 31:20 (NKJV) An easier translation of the same verse: “Is not Israel still my son, my darling child?” says the LORD. “I often have to punish him, but I still love him. That’s why I long for him and surely will have mercy on him." Jeremiah 31:20 (NLTV) Contrary to what many may seemingly take for granted, true love isn't always only pleasant to us in our current state. Sometimes it can be a little rough to bear. This may sound somewhat disturbing to some, but it's a fact and something that we really need to get a good hold on in our understanding. At times, true love is required to correct - to discipline, to move, for the good of the target of its affection. I make no mistake in my understanding that God is perfect love, but I well understand from scripture...
"The Lord is righteous in all His ways, g racious in all His works. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, t o all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. The Lord preserves all who love Him, b ut all the wicked He will destroy. My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord, a nd all flesh shall bless His holy name f orever and ever." Psalm 145:17-21 (NKJV) In the hour that I call out to the Lord in earnest, my soul quickens as I sense the weight of His presence and I'm reminded once again that I'm truly never alone. It's not a lack of attention toward me on the part of the Lord that leaves me feeling the loss of His presence, but mine toward Him if I ever feel alone. I remember that as a teen, privileged for a time to attend a Christian school, hearing words similar to this; "If you ever feel that the Lord has left you, turn around - He's right where you left Him ...