Shout for Joy

 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 of those 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