Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
March 29, 2022
Read Psalm 16:5-11
5 You, LORD, are my portion, my cup; you control my destiny. 6 The property lines have fallen beautifully for me; yes, I have a lovely home. 7 I will bless the LORD who advises me; even at night, I am instructed in the depths of my mind. 8 I always put the LORD in front of me; I will not stumble because he is on my right side. 9 That’s why my heart celebrates and my mood is joyous; yes, my whole body will rest in safety 10 because you won’t abandon my life to the grave; you won’t let your faithful follower see the pit. 11 You teach me the way of life. In your presence is total celebration. Beautiful things are always in your right hand.
Good Morning,
David has a wonderful way with words. This is a Psalm of Praise that was written during a time of conflict. David begins by blessing God for the physical things that he has been given in verses 5-6. It is interesting to consider that David as the youngest child would have received little or no inheritance from his earthly father. In verses 7-8, David praises God for his emotional support day and night. He closes this section by expressing his feelings of love and contentment in the arms of God.
If we spend much time reading the writings of David, we know that sometimes David yells at God and is conflicted by his faith. I appreciate David’s words even when he is afraid, sad, or mad. Through David, we can learn that we can share everything with God. It’s okay to have these feelings, but we shouldn’t hold them in and hide them from God. Only through the sharing of our feelings, can we find the peace that God promises us.
Perhaps the most challenging times that David faced, and that we face, are when we don’t see where we are being asked to go. It’s like trying to go to the grocery store in an unknown town, but you don’t know which way to turn. Some will tell you the turns to make, but you still are unsure until you see a familiar sign in the distance that shows you that you are almost there.
Our paths with God are sometimes unclear. We must learn to put our faith in God who loves us to lead us on our way. With each step, we feel apprehension, but we continue to step forward because that is the way that God has chosen for us. Along our journey, we will find validation in signs placed carefully by God. God is in control and planned our journey long before we even existed. Step out and be blessed. God will reveal our destination in time. Even on our darkest days, there is the light of hope glimmering in the distance. Follow the light of Jesus!
Loving and Gracious God, Thank You for loving us. Sometimes we feel like we have taken a wrong turn. Please, Lord, continue to guide us each day so that we may serve you. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: When the way forward is unclear, God can open my eyes to hope.
Step Out in Faith! Pastor Liz
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