Liz’s Morning Devotional based upon Upper Room
September 17, 2021
Read Psalm 16:1-11
1 Protect me, God, because I take refuge in you. 2 I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord. Apart from you, I have nothing good.” 3 Now as for the “holy ones” in the land, the “magnificent ones” that I was so happy about; 4 let their suffering increase because they hurried after a different god. I won’t participate in their blood offerings; I won’t let their names cross my lips. 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! Blessed Be the Lord!
What a change in today’s passage moving from Job’s lament to David’s praise! I find comfort that among God’s most faithful we are shown examples of different phases or moments in feelings: moments of praise, moments of doubt, moments of adoration, and moments of grief. As Christians, we will encounter many things which will create a multitude of reactions within us.
Our God is an awesome God who promises to be with us forever! We are called to rejoice always, pray continually, and be grateful for all things. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 I love David’s words in vs. 11, “In your presence is total celebration.” When we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are choosing to live a life of joy! I am not saying that all our troubles will suddenly disappear, but that whatever troubles we have, we will not be alone.
With all of these wonderful thoughts and ideas, how do we sometimes find ourselves in darkness and separate from our loving God? Evil, disguised as things that are attractive, lurks around every corner. In our human fraility, we are easily distracted by all that sparkles, and sometimes before we know it, we are stumbling alone in the dark.
The great news is that God is waiting for us to call out. When we give ourselves to Christ, he will provide the light to guide us back to our path. No matter how long we take, or how stubborn we are, God is patiently waiting for us. Our God is an awesome God! Amen!
Loving God, Thank You for loving us. We’re so blessed that you are merciful because we are easily tempted by evil. We can be stubborn, but you are patient. Thank You! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: When I get distracted, I can reset by seeking God first.
Follow the Light! Pastor Liz
Comments