For a $10 donation to the Wildlife Conservation Society, you can name a Madagascar hissing cockroach after someone you love. This fund-raising event for a New York City zoo targets sweethearts who want to pay tribute to the long-standing nature of their love. The zoo claims that the cockroach symbolizes resourcefulness and resiliency, and says, “Flowers wilt. Chocolates melt. Roaches are forever.”

God’s relationship with the nation of Israel teaches us about His unending love. Just before the Israelites were to inherit the Promised Land, they rebelled against their Maker, testing Him, and “refusing to listen” to His voice (Numbers 14:22). God was furious, and rightfully so. Moses appealed to Him, however, and said, “In keeping with Your magnificent, unfailing love, please pardon the sins of this people” (v.19).

God forgave the Israelites, but He refused to spare the rod when it came to their rebellion. He turned His own people into a nation of nomads for 40 years as a punishment (v.34). Although they were not happy about their sentence, it was a sign of God’s love for them. For the Bible says that “the Lord disciplines those He loves” (Hebrews 12:6).

The Lord also shows His care through provision. As the Israelites ambled through the outback for multiple decades, God met their most basic needs. He provided food as well as clothing and sandals (Deuteronomy 29:5-6).

God provides for His children, and He forgives and disciplines them. These actions are signs of His relentless love, which extends through history to reach you and me today. Because of Jesus (John 3:16), we can praise God along with the psalmist who said, “Your unfailing love will last forever. Your faithfulness is as enduring as the heavens” (Psalm 89:2).

NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Exodus 16:1-36