Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
August 31, 2024
Psalm 63:1-11
1 God! My God! It’s you I search for you! My whole being thirsts for you! My body desires you in a dry and tired land, no water anywhere. 2 Yes, I’ve seen you in the sanctuary; I’ve seen your power and glory. 3 My lips praise you because your faithful love is better than life itself! 4 So I will bless you as long as I’m alive; I will lift up my hands in your name. 5 I’m fully satisfied as with a rich dinner. My mouth speaks praise with joy on my lips 6 whenever I ponder you on my bed, whenever I meditate on you in the middle of the night 7 because you’ve been a help to me and I shout for joy in the protection of your wings. 8 My whole being clings to you; your strong hand upholds me. 9 But what about those people who want to destroy me? Let them go into the bowels of the earth! 10 Let their blood flow by the sword! Let them be food for wild jackals! 11 But the king should rejoice in God; everyone who swears by God should give praise when the mouths of liars are shut for good.
Good Morning! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
I have had an interesting few months during which I have made unexpected trips for memorial services for family members. Each of these trips had included tears as we grieve together and laughter as we recall the fond memories of our loved ones. A common greeting response in these times is, “I’m so glad that we were able to come together. I wish it were for better circumstances.”
God does not cause our pain or suffering, but He certainly uses the opportunity to help us find goodness and light from out of the darkness. Those hours, days, or weeks before the passing of our loved one are filled with pain and despair for both the one who is preparing to leave and those left behind.
Our loved one goes to eternal glory, and we celebrate their memory as friends and family gather. These times often provide special middle of the night time with God when sleep eludes us. My mouth speaks praise with joy on my lips 6 whenever I ponder you on my bed, whenever I meditate on you in the middle of the night 7 because you’ve been a help to me and I shout for joy in the protection of your wings.
God is always available and with us when we need love and protection. Embrace this time to allow God’s love to enter the spaces that fill empty.
Faithful God, Thank you for creating us. When we feel lost and alone, you are there to lead us back to the light. Thank you! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Even in the most challenging circumstances, God can fill us with joy.
Open your heart to God! Pastor Liz
Comments