Hope Upon Grace (1 Peter 1:13)

Today’s scripture: 1 Peter 1:13

Rest …

This seems to be a sadly-lacking commodity in our world today. Everyone is just so tired.

Physical rest. But also spiritual rest.

So many people are busy trying to find salvation or work for grace. They go, go, go and push, push, push … so much that they’re spiritually exhausted.

Salvation is not about us and what we can do. Salvation is about God and what He has already done. We are invited to “rest [our] hope fully upon … grace …”

Did you see that? “Fully on grace.”

Grace has paid the penalty. Grace has covered the sin.

Remember Jesus’ invitation in Matthew 11:28-29? He invites us all:

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (NASB)

All you have to do is “come”; Jesus is waiting.

Gladness in My Heart (Psalm 4:7-8)

Today's scripture: Psalm 4:7-8

I am so very blessed. God has given me so much: a supportive husband, a nice home, a reliable car, a loving family, two sweet dogs, great friends, a job I love (with the flexibility to do it from home), blessed ministries ... so very blessed.

He has indeed "put gladness in my heart."

I have great peace about my life even with my daily pain. I feel safe because I know God is always with me (Hebrews 13:5). I know He has a plan for a hopeful future (Jeremiah 29:11). I know He loves me unconditionally and everlastingly (Jeremiah 31:3).

So often, as I wrote yesterday, it's difficult to live in this very dark world. Accidents happen. Health is compromised. Relationships sour. So much in this world can make us feel very un-safe, un-peaceful.

When everything around us seems to be falling apart, when the bad guys seem to be winning, then the only place to find safety and peace is in the arms of our Abba Father—our Daddy.

When we crawl on His lap, He will fill our hearts with gladness. He will allow us to "lie down in peace" (although, for some of us, the sleep part might be a challenge!).

Truly, it really is He "alone ... [who] makes[s us] dwell in safety."

It's a safety that can only be found in the presence of the Almighty God.

Green Pastures. Still Waters (Ps. 23:2)

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
(Psalm 23:2, KJV)

When I read these verses, I have an instant mental picture of a meadow with lush, green grass. I see the breeze rustling the trees, and just over a gentle rise comes the song of a gently flowing stream.

I see myself flat on my back watching cotton candy clouds as they wisp overhead.

Quiet. Peacefulness.

And then I hear a voice—powerful, yet kind. It’s my gentle Shepherd.

“Rest, My child,” He soothes. “Shed the burdens of this day, and come to me. Let Me take whatever is causing you pain and share the load.” (See Matt. 11:28-30.)

So many times I let my daily pain and suffering steal my peace. I forget that my Lord wants to give me rest. Spiritual rest. Emotional rest. Physical rest.

And I can go to those green pastures. I can walk beside those still waters. I can experience peace that surpasses my human understanding, if only I let go (see Phil. 4:6-7).

You Are My God! (Ps. 42:11)

Why am I discouraged?
Why am I restless?
I trust you!
And I will praise you again
because you help me,
and you are my God.
(Psalm 42:11, CEV)

Discouragement is the lack of courage. Restlessness is the lack of restfulness.

And because of my relationship with Jesus, I have courage. He is my courage. He is my strength. I find my rest in Him. I can “Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him” (Ps. 37:7). Jesus invites me—He invites you—to “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS” (Matt. 11:28-29, NASB).

God has proven Himself to be faithful and trustworthy throughout my life. He has protected me and sustained me. He has carried me through the valleys. He has blessed me beyond my expectations—beyond what I deserve.

He has helped me when I haven’t been able to help myself.

Why? Because He is my God. My banner. My strength. My healer. My provider. My Savior.

And I praise Him.