God’s relationship with his people is a covenant relationship, and his covenant is a covenant of love. A theologian’s comment is helpful here: “The covenant is a key biblical notion around which much of the teaching on God’s love is gathered . . . The central Old Testament covenant is with Abraham and it reaches its full development in the New Covenant in Christ . . . The Hebrew word for grace is a covenant term implying loyal love, or steadfast love” (Bruce Milne).
God’s covenant is a covenant of grace. His love is not impressed by numbers: “The Lord did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples;” his love is love unmerited, redeeming love, ever true to his promises: “But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath he swore to your forefathers that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you” (Deut. 7:7-8).
To reflect on this covenant relationship brings assurance and encouragement to the believer:
He by Himself has sworn;
I on his oath depend:
I shall on eagle’s wings upborne,
To heaven ascent:
I shall behold his face,
I shall his power adore,
And sing the wonders of his grace
For evermore.
(Thomas Olivers)
“Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments;”
Deuteronomy 7:9 NASB1995
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