I’m working on a new approach to my blog series this year. Personally, I am walking through the Psalms (as I have done many times). These Scriptures have brought tremendous comfort and guidance to so many for so long, so each week this year I will share a couple of brief devotional thoughts from the Psalms. As you read through them, I urge you to reflect, pray, and apply these bits of encouragement.
Reflection 1
It is overwhelming to think about, really. The God of the universe knows us, loves us, and has his eyes on us. We are not a number or a project. We are His beloved children. This is so deeply profound and amazing.
“In you, Lord my God, I put my trust. I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful toward those who keep the demands of his covenant. Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.” — Psalm 25:1-2, 4-5, 8-10, 16, 20
Reflection 2
Is your footing sure? Are you standing on that which is solid and true? Examine your footing and foundation. David faced extraordinary challenges and difficulties. Sound familiar? Maybe you can identify today. But he made sure he was anchoring and abiding and standing on what was true and reliable and eternal — Almighty God. This reminds me of the story Jesus told about building our lives on “The Rock,” and not on shifting sand. Rely on God, not culture. Trust in God, not your own power. God is reliable. He is true. He is rock solid. He is unfailing. And he is FOR you! Stand squarely on Him. Trust in Him. And praise Him.
“My feet stand on level ground; in the great congregation I will praise the Lord.” — Psalm 26:12
Reflection 3
How is your fear level today? Jesus is our Prince of Peace. He wants to quiet your soul, comfort your heart, buoy your spirit. Lather, rinse, and repeat in this:
“The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?” — Psalm 27:1