NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 7-9
SCRIPTURE READING
Psalm 143:5-6 (ESV); I remember the days of old; I meditate on all that you have done; I
ponder the work of your hands. I stretch out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a
parched land.
This verse paints a lovely picture of steadfastness and humility before the Lord. When it is
hard to see what God is doing in our lives we can remember the days of old and meditate
on all that God has done. When God seems silent, or when it seems as though the journey
is hopeless we can anchor ourselves to what we know God has done. This was Israel’s lot.
When they forgot the goodness of the Lord they plunged into complaining, fear and idolatry.
But remembrance brought repentance, peace and deliverance.
This song of David’s gives us another picture to take to heart. When we are feeling
discouraged, we don’t need to make ourselves sound fine, dandy and oh-so-spiritual. In
honesty the psalmist unveils his feelings; that he longs to feel near to the Lord, to receive
guidance. He reaches out his hands; if only he could stretch far enough to touch the
Lord. We don’t have to pretend that we are high on a mountain when we are struggling.
Without being a negative, we can be honest about our feelings. The sin comes in when
we are blinded to God’s goodness by our forgetfulness and thanklessness. But in honest
humility and remembrance, we will see the light of Christ and the everlasting hope that is
guaranteed to all who persevere till the end.
PRAYER and MEDITATION
1. How can you relate to today’s devotional? Have you tried to make yourself sound fine
when you really need help? If you need it, seek out help through the church’s resources
such as cells, after service prayer, a personal ministry appointment or an Encounter retreat.
2. Spend some time in remembrance, as David did. Think about the incredible work of
God’s hands in your life and the world around you. Ask God to help you to cling to these
truths when you come into times of trouble.
3. Tell the Lord honestly how you feel. If you long for Him to do something, tell Him how
and why your soul thirsts. Humble yourself before Him and let Him speak His words to you.
Praise Him for the things He tells you.
