Today's Reading:
Leviticus 24:1-25:46
John 6:43-71
Psalm 35:19-28
Click on Text Link to Read Online
Focus Verses:
Psalm 35:26-27
26
May all who gloat over my distress be put to shame and confusion; may
all who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and disgrace. 27
May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness;
may they always say, "The LORD be exalted, who delights in the
well-being of his servant."
Insight:
The
opposition David faced and the subsequent hardship were difficult for
him to reconcile with his faith in God. If God had chosen him to be
king, why was he suffering at the hands who were against him. Why
would God allow his enemies to gloat over him? He cried out to God for
deliverance and vindication. He prayed for the day when his
advocates and supporters would rejoice at his salvation and give glory
and thanks to God.
Response and Action:
When
my circumstances are difficult, I will cry out to God for help. I
will pray not only for my rescue from hardship, but also for the
encouragement and witness God's deliverance will be for those who are
praying for me. Ultimately, I pray that God's salvation and strength in
my life will result in praise and thanksgiving to God.
O
God, you are my hope and salvation. Save me from the forces and the
circumstances that threaten to defeat me. Provide for my needs and
deliver me from evil. Protect me from discouragement. Encourage me, by
your Spirit, through your word, your people, your promises, and all
that is beautiful and true. Lead, teach, transform, shape, and
strengthen me that I might delight in your will and walk in your ways
to the glory of your name. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.
Spiritual Formation Verses: Philippians 1:20-21
20
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will
have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted
in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Resources:
The Ragamuffin Gospel: Good News for the Bedraggled, Beat-Up, and Burnt Out
by Brennan Manning
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