He Delights in Me (Psalm 18:4-19)

Today’s scripture: Psalm 18:4-19

Last week, we talked about how King David faced enemies of all kinds. Today’s verses describe vividly how the Lord helped David vanquish his enemies and delivered him.

I’ve never faced anything quite so terrifying nor have I seen God’s power as the psalmist describes. But I have faced my own enemies, some of them within my own heart. I’ve cried out for deliverance from pain. I’ve pleaded for help to forgive. I’ve battled my own sins.

And every time—every time—God was my “support.” He brought me through very dark places. He lifted me when I couldn’t walk. He gave me grace—and helped me to show grace to others.

And I believe, as David did, that He delivered me then—and will deliver me in the future—because He delights in me. He loves me as His precious daughter.

So I don’t need to fear or fret. My loving Abba will always take care of me.

Strength, Protector, Deliverer (Psalm 18:1-3)

Today’s scripture: Psalm 18:1-3

The psalmist describes the Lord God with several words that bring me—and I hope you—encouragement.

First, he writes of God’s strength. I often write of how difficult it can be to get through poor-health days, but I know that Jesus will always give me whatever strength I need to get through those days.

Second, he writes of the Lord’s being a rock. My husband and I love to take road trips visiting different areas of this beautiful nation. A couple of our favorites are Yosemite National Park in Northern California and Zion National Park in Utah. Two must-sees in these breathtaking (in the truest sense of the word) parks are Half Dome in the former and The Narrows in the latter. Both are examples of solid rock. Seemingly-immovable. Powerful. Magnificent. Amazing. Our God is stronger, more powerful, and truly immovable.

Third, he writes of God as a fortress. I just finished watching a six-part BBC series on castles in Great Britain, and each was built as a fortress to protect its inhabitants from all enemies. Our God protects us even more than any manmade fortress.

Finally, while he also writes of His being a stronghold (which to me seems very much like strength and a fortress) and a shield, the final word that touches my heart is “deliverer.” God has delivered me from so much. From my own sin. From abuse. From pain. From depression.

I know I can “call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,” and He will hear me. He’ll be my strength, my solid rock, my unconquerable fortress, and my faithful deliverer.

He’s the same for you.

The Image of God (Psalm 17:15)

Today's scripture: Psalm 17:15

The Bible tells us that the first man was made in the "image of God" (Genesis 1:27). Adam and Eve, before the fall, communed with the Creator Himself. Then sin entered the world, and everything was skewed.

Perhaps that image was skewed as well. Perhaps we don't carry the image of God on our faces. When we commit our lives to the Lord, though, we begin a journey to become more and more like Jesus.

We strive to be more loving, kinder, and gentler. We demonstrate more patience and joy. We are more forgiving.

In these ways, we are indeed showing God's image. The more we live like Christ, the more like Him we are. The more we are like Him, the more we may attract others to Him.

One day, we will do more than see Christ through our fellow believers. One day, we will see our Lord face-to-face. We will see His work in us and in the lives of others who follow Him.

While we linger on earth, our goal should be to live like Christ, being a godly influence on those around us. The, we can look forward to the day when we see Him ... face-to-face.

Forgiven ... So Forgive (Psalm 17:13-14)

Today's scripture: Psalm 17:13-14

On Wednesday, we looked at how God helps us deal with the enemy of our souls, but some of us also deal with the "wicked" here on earth. Wicked humans, I mean.

Some of us have been—or are being—abused. Some of us have been betrayed. Some of us have been on the wrong end of a business deal gone wrong.

As often happens, many of us will never see the one (or ones) who hurt us punished on earth. In fact, it seems—more often than not—that the bad guys are always winning. Otherwise, why would there be that old saying, "Nice guys finish last"? The assumption is that bad guys finish first.

It just doesn't seem fair.

So, what do we do when the bad guys win? When they finish first?

We have to give it over to God. That might be the easy part. We also have to forgive. This is not the easy part, but it's oh-so necessary.

I experienced sexual abuse at the hands of multiple perpetrators, and for a very long time, I let the hate and anger I felt toward them nearly destroy my faith. When I finally found my way back to the Lord, one thing I really struggled with was His telling me that I needed to forgive those who hurt me. To be honest, I really didn't want to. After all, they never asked for my forgiveness. They certainly didn't deserve it.

Then I was reminded of how Jesus had forgiven me when I didn't deserve it. So, with the help of the Lord, I forgave ... and it was the most freeing experience. I wasn't bogged down by hate or anger any longer.

I don't know if any of my abusers has suffered human judgment for their acts, but I do know that God "as delivered my life from the wicked." They no longer have any control at all over my life.

If you're struggling with an earthly enemy, I encourage you to give it over to God. Let Him judge. Let Him take care of the situation.

Live in the freedom of a forgiven—and forgiving—heart. 

Fighting the Enemy (Psalm 17:10-12)

Today's scripture: Psalm 17:10-12

King David, the author of Psalm 17, faced enemies—real enemies that wanted to see him dead. Many times through the psalms he wrote, he cried out for God's deliverance from those enemies.

We may not face human enemies, but we are certainly under attack. As Paul wrote, "We are fighting against forces and authorities and against rulers of darkness and powers in the spiritual world" (CEV, Ephesians 6:12).

The enemy of our souls, Satan himself, wants nothing more than to keep us from serving and worshipping God. He knows he's lost the war because I truly believe we can never lose our salvation, but he can keep us away from God. He can whisper words of doubt. He can make us question our faith. He can keep us stagnant, keeping us from growing as children of God.

When we find ourselves doubting or questioning, we need to go immediately to the One who loves us. We need to open our hearts to Him, sharing what's deep in our souls. He will cover us with His love and remind us that He is the Victor, and one day, He will vanquish the enemy (Revelation 20:10).

We can live in hope that God will help us fight the enemy while we're on earth, and we can rejoice in the assurance that He, one day, will conquer the enemy forever.

Truth, Hope, and Encouragement (Psalm 17:6-9)

Today's scripture: Psalm 17:6-9

I love how much truth and hope and encouragement I can find in just a few verses. As I read today's scripture, I find:

God hears me every time I call on Him. No matter where I am, no matter what I'm doing, He hears me. He "incline[s His] ear to me ..." This assurance encourages me so much!

He shows me "marvelous lovingkindness." My God, the Creator of the universe, loves me. Me. Flawed, fleshly, fallible me. He demonstrates His love in so many ways. Provision. Protection. Peace through the storm. Carrying me when I can't take a step (see yesterday's devotional).

I am the "apple of [His] eye." According to the Urban Dictionary, this phrase means "one's favorite person; the one you love most." While I don't believe God loves anyone more than others, it's encouraging to remember that He thinks I'm special ... and you are too!

He hides me "under the shadow of [His] wings." I don't have to worry about what the day will bring because He protects me. When the storms come, He covers me from the rain. When I face crises or difficulties, He will keep me safe.

Our God is so very good, and He loves to shower us with blessings ... and He loves to encourage us by reminding us of His love and care.

Hold My Hand More Tightly ... (Psalm 17:4-5)

Today's scripture: Psalm 17:4-5

We all have them ... those mornings when we just want to burrow under the covers and hibernate for the day. You know exactly what I'm talking about, don't you?

When I face those morning—knowing full well I can't just stay in bed—I often plead, "Lord Jesus, would You please hold my hand more tightly this morning?" Then I read words like verse 5 of today's scripture: "Uphold my steps in Your paths, that my footsteps may not slip."

Our Savior, our Shepherd, walks alongside us every day. Every moment. He never leaves us (Hebrews 13:5). We're never alone. Not only will the Lord "uphold [our] steps," but He will also carry us when we can't even take a step: "Care for [us]; carry [us] like a good shepherd" (MSG, Psalm 28:9).

I don't know about you, but these words bring me hope. If it weren't for the promise of the Lord's constant presence, I wouldn't want to get up each morning. If it weren't for the promise of His carrying me, I wouldn't be able to get up each morning.

You're not alone. When you can't seem to pull yourself out of bed, when you can't take a step, call out to your Lord and Savior. Cry out to Him and ask Him to hold your hand more tightly ... today and every day.

God Is Everywhere (Psalm 17:3)

Today's scripture: Psalm 17:3

One of our Lord's attributes is that He is omnipresent. He is everywhere at all times. This is a mystery beyond our comprehension, but I believe it to be true.

I have several favorite psalms, and one of my favorites, the 139th, reminds me of God's constant presence. The psalmist writes:

Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit?
    to be out of your sight?
If I climb to the sky, you’re there!
    If I go underground, you’re there!
If I flew on morning’s wings
    to the far western horizon,
You’d find me in a minute—
    you’re already there waiting!
(MSG, vv. 7-10)

He is everywhere.

Now, this might make some of us cringe. He sees us all the time, so even when no other human is with us, we're not alone.

Think about it. What do you do when you're alone? Are you one person in public and another when no one else is around? When you're with your friends, do you act differently than when you're in church?

God sees. He sees everything. Every thought, every word, every action.

If you're convicted by this reminder, then perhaps you need to get down on your knees and ask the Lord to help you be whom He wants you to be.

Everywhere. All the time.

Rewards ... and Judgment (Psalm 17:1-2)

Today's scripture: Psalm 17:1-2

I'm very blessed. Very, very blessed.

Sometimes, though, even with all the many blessings God has given me, I cry out to Him. I cry out in pain. I cry out for others who are suffering. I cry out for justice for those who have been wronged.

There is so much wrong with this world. As the cancer of sin continues to spread throughout this rapidly-decaying planet, corruption and disease and perversion wreak havoc.

It's enough to make the strongest among us want to crawl into a hole and hibernate.

I still have hope, though. I know that those of us who have been hurt in so many ways will one day be vindicated. The God of the universe, the Creator of all things, the Righteous Judge will one day reward those who have chosen to follow Him ... and call down judgment on those who have rejected Him.

One day, this world will be no more. Its pain and suffering and injustice will be wiped from our hearts and minds. We will live in the light of our Lord and Savior.

As the old hymn says, "... what a day of rejoicing that will be!"

Fullness of Joy (Psalm 16:11)

Today's scripture: Psalm 16:11

A few days ago, I wrote about hearing God's voice. He really does speak to us when we call on Him. So many verses state that we can call upon God, and He will answer (Jeremiah 29:12; Psalm 91:15).

God will show us His plans for our lives. If we focus on Him and desire His will, He will "show [us] the path of life ..." He will give us what we need and what we desire because what we desire will be what He desires for us.

When we follow God's uniquely-designed paths for each of us, we will find joy—true, deep-in-the-heart joy. In fact, I submit that we can't find that true joy apart from Him. One of the topics about which I speak is entitled "Arresting the Joy-stealers." I talk about how this world is full of things that want to steal our God-given peace. I often say something like:

We who know God experience the greatest joy possible because we are able to stand in the presence of God Himself, and as the psalmist wrote, in His “presence is fullness of joy.” Our hearts can’t be truly joyful apart from God.
When we come to know God through the salvation of His Son, Jesus Christ, He promises that we will be filled with joy. The apostle Paul wrote that followers of Christ are given the Holy Spirit to help us walk through every day, and the Spirit helps us to live lives of joy: “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22, 23a).

God designed an incredible world for us, His beloved children. Flowers and sunsets, fluffy clouds and gentle rains, majestic mountains and calming seas. Beauty is all around us. Family and friends and children. God provided people to love and to love us. In these things, in these people, we find joy. Sometimes it’s the big things that bring us joy: weddings, graduations, holidays, reunions. Other times, it’s walking along hand-in-hand with our favorite person or seeing the wag-tailed welcome from our favorite pets. We can find joy anywhere . . . if we only seek it.

Yes, joy is everywhere, but again true joy cannot be found without God. True joy is found when we know that we have been saved by God’s grace through the acceptance of Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection. Throughout the Scriptures, we see evidence of the joy that comes by knowing God.

Do you live in that kind of joy? Are you confident walking God's "path of life" in "fullness of joy"? Submit your life to Him. Give Him everything.

He will fill you with true, deep-in-the-heart joy. Really. He will.

My Hope Is in the Lord (Psalm 16:9-10)

Today's scripture: Psalm 16:9-10

Hope.

What brings you hope? I challenge you to stop reading right now and ask yourself this question.

What brings me hope?

Do you find hope in relationships? In your career? In your home? In your stuff? And what happens when that relationship ends? When the pink slip comes? When your house burns down (and yes, I've had friends who have lost their homes this way ...).

Where then do you find your hope?

For a long while, I found my hope in what I could do. I strove to accomplish everything in my way with my strength with my skills. Then, through bouts of depression and a lengthy struggle with infertility, I realized that I had no strength ... I had no hope.

I finally realized how hopeless I was, and it was only then that I found true hope in God.

I find hope in the confidence He has a plan for my life (Jeremiah 29:11) and that plan is to bring Him glory and me good (Romans 8:28). I find hope in the knowledge that I'm not alone (Hebrews 13:5) and that the Holy Spirit is my Helper, interceding for me (Romans 8:26-27).

Most of all, I find hope in the security of eternity with my Lord (John 14:1-3). One day, I'll live with Him in the new heaven and new earth with no pain, no sorrow (Revelation 21:3-4).

My hope is in the Lord, and I can rest ... 

Be Still ... and Listen (Psalm 16:7-8)

Today's scripture: Psalm 16:7-8

I've never been one who hears an audible voice when God speaks, but I have heard Him. Usually, He speaks in that "still small voice" we read about in 1 Kings 19:12. Many times I have prayed for something, and I've heard His voice in my heart. He counsels me to do those things that please Him. He guides me down paths that lead to His purpose. He reveals His will to me.

Hearing God's voice, though, requires one thing, though. We need to focus on Him, without distractions:

The most important thing about listening for God’s voice is that, in order for Him to be heard, you must be silent. God doesn’t want to compete with the world’s noise, nor should He. We know God, we hear His voice, in the stillness, in the quiet. God tells us to “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). King David said with confidence that “the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly; the Lord will hear when I call to Him . . . Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still” (Psalm 4:3-4). (The Best Laid Plans © 2005 Sauni Rinehart)

When we focus on God and truly listen to Him, He speaks to us. So, as The Message paraphrases verse 8 of today's scripture:

Day and night I’ll stick with God;
I’ve got a good thing going and I’m not letting go.

All I Want ... (Psalm 16:5-6)

Today's scripture: Psalm 16:5-6

I've written this many times, but I have to say again: I don't know how those who don't know God live ... seriously. Without the confidence that He is in loving, gracious, merciful control of my every day, I'd just want to crawl into a hole and die.

Seriously.

However, because I know He loves me and has a plan for me (Jeremiah 29:11), I can surrender everything ... everything.

The Contemporary English Version paraphrase of today's verses especially touches my heart:

You, Lord, are all I want!
    You are my choice,
    and you keep me safe.
You make my life pleasant,
    and my future is bright.

Not only is God "all I want" in this life, knowing Him assures me that I have eternity with Him to look forward to. He protects me now and gives me strength each day, and one day, my "bright future" will be in the new heaven and new earth ... in His presence, forever and ever.

Lord God Almighty, be my all in all. Be my only choice. Use me as You will. And one day, usher me into your kingdom. Amen.

The Cares of This Life (Psalm 16:4)

Today's scripture: Psalm 16:4

So many people "hasten after other god[s] ..." The god of success. The god of pleasure. The god of wealth.

They put relationships and things and careers above the one true God. They think, "If I can just get this promotion or marry that person or have a solid retirement fund, I'll be fine. I don't need anything but [fill in the blank]."

The thing is ... none of that matters. No one will find true joy or peace pursuing these gods. In fact, as the psalmist writes, "Their sorrows will be multiplied ..."

Now, you may be reading this and think, "Nope. I have lots of stuff and good friends and take really good vacations. I don't have any sorrow. I'm doing just fine without that 'one true God' you mention."

Well, maybe that's true. Maybe you're living a happy, care-free life. But I wonder. Does the pressure to have the stuff, to have "enough," cause you to work more hours? And do those hours keep you from those you love?  Or does the stress of making certain you have a nice, big bank account keep you up at night?

Maybe, just maybe, your sorrows (the cares of this life) are multiplying, and you don't even realize it.

Something more than the "sorrow" you may feel on earth, though, is the sorrow that will multiply—beyond description—in eternity. If you spend this life pursuing other gods, you'll miss knowing the God of the Bible, the one and only God. If you miss knowing Him now, you'll miss knowing Him forever.

That's true sorrow.

Highs and Lows (Psalm 16:1-3)

Today's scripture: Psalm 16:1-3

The last few weeks have been a mix of highs (a wonderful 30^th anniversary trip and being a part of our niece’s wedding) and lows (a couple of significant health flare-ups). All—blessings and pain—caused my soul to say to the Lord, "You are my Lord."

I know I've said this before, but I honestly don't know how people survive without a personal relationship with the one true God. Whom do they thank when things go right? And to whom do they run when things go wrong?

As I was mediating on today's verses, I looked at a couple of other paraphrases and translations. I was particularly taken with both The Message and Contemporary English Version's take on verses 1-2:

Keep me safe, O God,I’ve run for dear life to you.I say to God, “Be my Lord!”Without you, nothing makes sense. (MSG)
Protect me, Lord God!I run to you for safety,and I have said,"Only you are my Lord!Every good thing I haveis a gift from you.” (CEV)

Because I know that my loving, gracious, merciful God is in control of my highest highs and lowest lows, I can trust Him to keep me safe and protect me. I can be confident that everything has a purpose.

Indeed, with Him, I can rejoice on the mountaintop and seek refuge in Him in the valleys ... for without Him, nothing does make sense.

On the Holy Mountain (Psalm 15)

Today's scripture: Psalm 15

Wednesday, I wrote that I rarely try to cover one psalm in one day. How ironic because, today, we're going to take a one-day look at a small, but mighty psalm. I usually meditate on either the New King James Version or the New American Standard Bible, but today, I'm going to focus on the Contemporary English Version, a paraphrase I often use to emphasize or explain.

This psalm begins by asking a very important question:

Who may stay in God’s temple
    or live on the holy mountain
    of the Lord?

Honestly, the initial answer to this question is "no one." No person is worthy to stand in God's temple. We are all sinners, and Holy God cannot be in the presence of sin. Ah, but Holy God is also a God of love, and He is a God of mercy.

However, the psalmist gives a true and profound answer to his own question: "Only those who obey God and do as they should."

He then goes on to describe what "doing as they should" means: speaking the truth; not spreading gossip; treating others fairly; and not saying cruel things.

Well ... as I read this list, I have to ask myself, "Do I do as I should? Do I do—or not do—these things?" I certainly try, but I often fail.

Then I read on. One who obeys God also shows respect for "all who worship the Lord." She also "keeps her promises, no matter the cost."

Hmmm ...

Convicted much?

I want to be a woman whom God looks at with pleasure, with pride. I want my Abba to smile when He sees my actions. I want to be one who obeys God and His word. I want to do all those things listed above.

And so I pray for strength to be Christ-like, for conviction when I fail.

Because, more than anything, I want one day "to live on the holy mountain of the Lord."

The Fool Has Said ... (Psalm 14)

Today’s scripture: Psalm 14

It’s rare that I cover an entire psalm in one posting, but when I read this psalm, I’m always reminded of a play that we discuss in the course I teach for Liberty University Online: Everyman.

It’s an ancient morality play in which the title character represents all men. Another character, Death, is sent by God to inform Everyman that he is to face judgment because God is distressed by the way Everyman lives. God says:

I perceive, here in My majesty,
How that all creatures be to Me unkind,
Living without dread in worldly prosperity.
Of ghostly sight the people be so blind,
Drowned in sin, they know Me not for God …

These words echo the psalmist’s:  

The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.”They are corrupt, they have committed abominable deeds; There is no one who does good.

And today? I think we could say the same. Very few of the created follow the Creator. In fact, too many don’t even acknowledge that He even exists.

I often wonder how and why God still lingers. Why hasn’t Christ returned to bring everlasting peace to the new heaven and the new earth? Why does sin abound? Why are there so many that say, “There is no God”?

I don’t know. I do know that I don’t want to be one of the “corrupt” that breaks God’s heart.

This psalm is a great reminder of what I don’t want to be … No. I want to live for Him and bring glory to Him.

Rejoice Bountifully (Psalm 13:5-6)

Today's scripture: Psalm 13:5-6

We've talked a lot about mercy lately, so I'm not going to focus on the first part of verse five. Instead, I'm going to focus on two words: rejoice and bountifully.

The psalmist writes, "My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation" and "Because He has dealt bountifully with me." Now, I know, in context, the because is tied to "I will sing to the Lord ..." However, I think it's safe to say that I can rejoice because how bountifully I am blessed.

See where I'm going with this?

Rejoice means to "feel or show great joy or delight." Joy is a state of being; it is finding contentment no matter the circumstances. Even in the difficult times I can rejoice because I know God has a plan and a purpose.

Today, though, we're tying rejoice and bountifully together.

Every person who has committed his or her heart and life to Jesus is already blessed. Forgiveness. Grace. Mercy. Never-ending love. Eternity with our Lord.

But I submit that we who follow Christ in the United States are bountifully blessed. If you're reading this you either own or have access to a computer or some other device. Which means you have electricity. Which means you have some kind of income ... probably significantly more than many throughout our world ...

We are blessed with relationships, with material goods. We are blessed with health (well, most of us are ...).

So, how can we not rejoice? How can we not lift hands and hearts in praise to our amazing God?

How can we not rejoice in our bountiful blessings?

Today, echo the words of the psalmist: "I will rejoice because I am bountifully blessed."

Truth Never Dies (Psalm 13:3-4)

Today's scripture: Psalm 13:3-4

In 1882, Frederick Nietzsche wrote the now infamous words, "God is dead. He remains dead. And we have killed him." In the over 100 years since, atheists and agnostics have argued against the existence of the God of the Bible.

He doesn't exist, they say. They say Christianity is, in fact, dying. A simple Google query on that question has over 15 million results. Those who are anti-Christian seem to think they're "prevailing" against the faith.

Well, as a "religion," perhaps Christianity is dying. Statistics indicate that many, especially young people, are leaving the church. But guess what? Being a Christ-follower isn't about following a religion or attending a certain church. Being a follower of Christ, being a child of the one true God, is about a relationship with the Savior of the world.

I know, I know. You've heard that before.

But the real point is that Christ is alive, and those who follow Him are alive in Him—now and for all eternity.

So, we cannot die. Our beliefs cannot die. The truths of the Bible cannot die.

Our enemies will never prevail against us. Never.

How Long, O Lord? (Psalm 13:1-2)

Today's scripture: Psalm 13:1-2

I almost hate to read or listen to the news these days. In so many places, the enemy seems to be winning. Persecution. Ridicule. Suffering.

So many Christ-followers throughout the world are facing pain and sorrow and devastation of all kinds. There are times when even the strongest Christian wonders if God has forgotten her ... Many of us cry the same words of the psalmist:

How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever?How long will You hide Your face from me?

I have faced moments when everything seems dark, when I feel so lonely, when I feel so much pain ... and I wonder if God has forgotten me. My cries sometimes have seemed to go nowhere, just echoing back time and time again.

I've lived through seasons where the enemy takes a foothold and whispers lies: God has forgotten you. He doesn't care. In fact, no one cares.

Maybe you've lived through similar seasons. Maybe you're living in one now.

I'd like to assure you of two things: God hasn't forgotten you, and the enemy will never win the war.

The God of the universe, the God of the Bible, loves each and every one of His children. He is, indeed, love itself (1 John 4:8). And because He loves us so very much, He promises to never leave or forsake His children (Hebrews 13:5). He also promises to take everything—the good, the bad, and the ugly—and use it for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28).

No, God never forgets His children.

And even though it really does seem like the enemy is winning a battle or two—or three or four—we know that our Lord Jesus Christ has already won the war (John 16:33).

It's okay to cry out to our Lord. The psalms make that very clear. We just need to remember God's promises throughout His word to us.

He'll answer our cries and assure of His presence—and His victory.

The Pure Words of God (Psalm 12:6-8)

Today’s scripture: Psalm 12:6-8

I’ve written before (and will certainly write again J) that I love God’s word! I am eternally (and I mean that literally) grateful that He chose to leave us a document, inspired by the Spirit and written by men, that tells us about Him and how we should live to please Him.

Studying and meditating on God’s word is so very, very important for Christ-followers. If we want to know Him, if we want to be like Christ, if we want to serve well, we need to spend time in the “pure words” of the scriptures.

I’m part of a small group of ladies that meets weekly to discuss what God has taught us through His word and through the various studies we go through. And every time, even if I’ve read passages before, I always learn something new.

And the more I study and meditate, I’m drawn even closer to God.

Let me encourage you now: If you’re not spending daily time with the Lord in study and meditation of His word, please schedule that time! It’ll become the most important part of your day!

Set in Safety (Psalm 12:5)

Today’s scripture: Psalm 12:5

My heart yearns more and more for heaven. The older I get, the more my body seems to fail me. Pain increases. Energy decreases. And honestly? Whenever I hear about a believer’s death? My first thought is, “How blessed she is! She’s with Jesus!”

For some reason known only to Him, though, God continues to keep me here on earth. I know He has a purpose … still. So, although I really would love to be in the presence of my Savior, somedays, all I can do is groan … and pray for the “safety” of God’s arms. For strength. For comfort. For peace.

And I trust that He’ll give me exactly what I need. For today.

Help, Lord! (Psalm 12:1-4)

Today’s scripture: Psalm 12:1-4

I read today’s scripture, and my first thought is: Nothing has changed. Year after year. Century after century. Nothing has changed.

So many today arrogantly “speak falsehood” with “double heart[s].” They ask, “who is lord over us?” They think they’re in control. It seems that the godly have, indeed, “cease[d] to be.”

Ahhh … but that’s not true! There are godly men and women around the world. Men and women who strive to live like Christ. Who give to the poor. Who serve the “least of these” (Matt. 25:31-46). Who want to do what’s right, to love with mercy, and to walk humbly with God (Micah 4:8).

We’ve talked time and time again about how it often seems the enemy is winning, and yes, we do live in a world where the majority don’t know the one true God. But no matter how many battles the enemy wins, we know who has already won the war! (John 16:33).

The Lord Is Righteous (Psalm 11:7)

Today's scripture: Psalm 11:7

Our God is perfect. Holy. Righteous.

He is sinless ... and we are sinful. We are flawed and frail and fickle. To think we can be in relationship with God is amazing ...

How can He look at our filth? How can He possibly love us?

Because, not only is He righteous and holy, but He is also love.

He looks upon us—in all our willfulness, sinfulness, and rebellion—and He sees His dearly-loved children. Through the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ, all those stains of our sins are wiped away.

Because of Jesus Christ's sacrifice, righteous God sees us as righteous.

It's astounding. Just astounding.

And when I think the God loves the righteousness in me, I want to honor that. I want to live to bring Him glory; I want to do what is right. I want to be like my Savior.

I want to please my righteous, loving God.

The Lord Is in His Temple! (Psalm 11:4-6)

Today's scripture: Psalm 11:4-6

On Wednesday, we talked about how we who follow Christ are in a battle, just as Paul described to the church at Ephesus (Ephesians 6:12). We ended with the reminder that we just need to trust the Lord.

God never changes. Never. He is always with us. Always.

He is, as the psalmist writes, in His temple and on His throne. He will never "slumber or sleep" (Psalm 121:4). He knows each step we take, each valley we descend, each mountaintop we conquer.

He also sees the acts of our enemies. He sees the wicked and unrighteous. He sees those who deliberately turn their backs on Him and persecute His children. While, indeed, the wicked seem to be winning battle after battle, one day each and every person who ever lived will stand before that throne ... no, they will kneel before that throne and confess Christ as Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).

Tragically, those who seem to be winning battles now will lose the final war, and they will be separated from the One whom they denied ... forever.

Now that I think about it, our fight shouldn't be against those who demean our faith. No. Our battle should be against a mutual enemy: the one who would love nothing more than to drag people to his own fate. We need to fight him for the souls of unbelievers.

We know who wins the war (John 16:33), and we who follow that Conqueror need to reach as many as we can to the winning side.

Trust in the Lord (Psalm 11:1-4)

Today's scripture: Psalm 11:1-3

We are in a battle. A very real battle. And it's not the "wars and rumors of wars" that were prophesied about (Matthew 24:6; Mark 13:7). No. We who follow Christ are in a war with those who would demean or destroy our faith.

Throughout the world, Christ-followers are being ridiculed, persecuted, and martyred, just because they choose to proclaim the truth of the Bible. Many, many times, it seems like the enemy is winning ... and it feels like our "foundations are destroyed."

Today's psalm asks a question: "What can the righteous do?" We'll elaborate on this more on Friday, but the answer is already there: "In the Lord I put my trust ..."

When the battles are fierce, when everyone around us tells us we're wrong, when the world's values seem to be overtaking everything ... then the only thing we can do is trust the One who created all things. The One who is in loving, sovereign control. The One who knows exactly what's happening in each and every life.

The One who loves us more than we can imagine and far more than we deserve. 

The God of Justice (Psalm 10:16-18)

Today's scripture: Psalm 10:16-18

Yes. It seems the bad guys are winning battle after battle. Corruption. Perversion. Immorality. It can make even the most faithful hang her head in despair.

Ah. But we know Who wins the war.

Read the first line of today’s scripture again: "The Lord, our Lord, is King forever and ever." He has heard—and will hear—"the desire of the humble." He has heard—and will hear—our cries.

And He will one day do justice. One day, we all—each and every one of us—will stand before His throne, and those of us who follow Him will receive rewards according to how we’ve served Him.

One day, those who chose not to follow Him will receive judgment. Those who have oppressed, those who have lived thumbing their noses at God, those who have flagrantly lived in ungodliness will be judged.

Now read the last line of this psalm. I’m no theologian, and again, this psalm seems to be more about man than Satan, but wouldn’t you agree that the enemy could be described as “the man of the earth”? And if so, one day, he will oppress no more.

Find hope in these words today, my friend. Be encouraged, knowing that one day, all the pain and suffering you’re facing today will be over. We will be face-to-face with our King—forever and ever.

A Plea (Psalm 10:12-15)

Today's scripture: Psalm 10:12-15

Have you ever felt forgotten? Have you ever suffered through a season and felt alone? The last few devotionals have focused on the wicked’s pride and arrogance, and how they seem to be winning. They say God has forgotten.

Today is where hope begins. I said on Wednesday that our God never forgets us, and I believe that with all my heart. Even when I “forgot” Him, He never forgot me. He never forgets you.

All we have to do is cry out to Him.

I’ve always found real comfort reading the psalms—that's mainly why I decided to focus again on the psalms in 2018. So often the writers cry out to God for intervention, for protection, for salvation. And they did so with the assurance that God listened. Always.

We too can cry out to God. We can plea that He not forget the humble. We can ask for His help, knowing He will help us.

He really will.  In His time. According to His plan.

Always.

Has God Forgotten Me? (Psalm 10:8-11)

Today's scripture: Psalm 10:8-11

Monday, I wrote that sometimes it seems like the enemy is winning. Psalm 10 continues that thought. According to the New American Standard Bible, this is a psalm praying for the overthrow of the wicked, and I agree. But I also see it as how the enemy of our souls behaves. The enemy—prideful, arrogant, a liar, a murderer—seems to be described quite well in today’s verses.

Lurking. Murders the innocent. Lies in wait secretly.

God has forgotten …

And sometimes it seems like God really has forgotten us. When the pain is unrelenting. When the checking account is empty and rent is due. When the doctor says, “I’m so sorry.” When that prodigal is far from home.

God—at times—seems so far away. Prayers—at times—go no further than the ceiling. What do we do then?

I often speak of the gift of hindsight. I’ve experienced a lot in my five+ decades on this earth. Abuse. Infertility. Chronic pain. And many, many times, God seemed to have forgotten me. But with that gift of hindsight, I can see He never, ever did. Even through twenty years of rebellion, He never, ever did.

And everything that’s happened—even those things my enemies did for evil—God used for good. Everything.

Be strong through whatever season you’re going through, my friend. And know one thing: God never forgets you. Never.

When God Seems Far Away (Psalm 10:1-7)

Today's scripture: Psalm 10:1-7

Sometimes, I watch the news or read the headlines, and it seems like the bad guys are winning … a lot.

The writer of this psalm described our world really, really well. It’s full of people who are prospering and prideful. Even more, countless deny the existence of the one true God.

Deceit. Cursing. Renouncing the Lord. Sound familiar?

It’s almost painful when it seems like those of us who follow Jesus are losing—jobs, health, relationships—when the “wicked” are thriving. And we cry the words of the psalmist, "Why do You stand afar off, O LORD?”

I’ve asked the same question. Days when I drag myself from bed because the pain is so intense. Days when politicians are caught in lies—but “spin” their way out. Days when people die in catastrophic natural events while celebrities talk of their triple-digit car purchase.

The psalmist continues, “Why do You hide in times of trouble?”

Yes, sometimes it seems like God is far away, hiding in times of trouble. Sometimes it feels like the enemy is indeed winning. And it’s really hard.

During these times, my hope comes from a favorite verse. I pray as you face your own enemy, these words will give you hope too:

 "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." (NASB, John 16:33)

Our enemies may be winning a battle or two, but our Lord Jesus Christ has already won the war!

God Is God ... We Are Not ... (Psalm 9:19-20)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:19-20

There’s Steven Curtis Chapman song where he sings, “You are God, and I am not.” Jehovah God is the Creator. We are the created. He is infinite. We are finite. He is Savior. We are sinner.

Yet, we live in a world where a lot of people think they can be their own gods. They are self-sufficient. They are in control. They’re more than mere men—or so they think. But they're sadly—and eternally—mistaken.

I believe with all I am there is one God and one only. And I believe with all I am He’s the God of the Bible. There is no other. And man (and I’m using the generic “man”) certainly isn’t god—in any way, shape or form. It saddens me that we live in a nation where God has been neglected or forgotten or outright denied. And it may take God’s having to “put them in fear” for this nation to “know that they are but men.”

He’s chastised nations that have rejected Him in the past. He may just have to do the same with us … and perhaps He already is. Financial crises. Political scandals. Mass shootings. Hmmm. Perhaps He’s trying to get our attention.

We need a reawakening. We need a revival. We need to remember that we are but men.

Hope for the Needy and Afflicted (Psalm 9:18)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:18

I’m not needy in the sense I have little or no material possessions. I’m blessed with shelter and food and clothing—those things the Lord promises to provide for His children. I’m not afflicted in the sense that enemies are on my doorstep day and night. I’m equally blessed to live in a nation where I can worship freely and live in freedom.

But I am needy. I need grace. I need strength. I need God to hold me up and sometimes even carry me.

And I am afflicted. I’ve often written about some chronic health problems I deal with. There are days when I honestly struggle to get out of bed. Just lately, I’ve had more of those days than not.

Yet, I have hope. I know I’m not forgotten. I know my Abba wraps His arms of love around me. I know He has a purpose even for my pain.

What do you need today? How are you afflicted? Do you feel forgotten? Are you without hope?

If you’re a child of God, if you’ve accepted the free gift of salvation through His Son, you are not forgotten. You are not without hope. Lay all your burdens at the foot of God’s throne. Trust that He really will work all things out for good (Rom. 8:28). And one day, when you stand before that throne, you can be confident you’ll never need, never hurt, never cry—ever again.

Forever Separated ... (Psalm 9:17)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:17

These are very sobering words—or they should be. One day, every person who chooses not to follow the one true God will forever reside in Sheol—hell. Whether you believe in a literal “fire and brimstone” hell, countless will experience an even greater suffering: eternal separation from their loving God. Forever separated. How heartbreaking.

We who know the truth need to share it with everyone. We need to do all we possibly can to keep others from that eternal separation. My mother-in-law had a neighbor who has such a heart for Jesus. One of her first questions to people is: “Are you a Christian?” And if they’re not, she sweetly and lovingly befriends them. Not pushing her faith, but making sure they know truth.

I’m convicted. I’m never that bold, but I need to be. I need to take every opportunity to share truth. I don’t want to be the reason someone doesn’t hear about the love of God and His grace and mercy.

Help me, Lord, to be bold to tell Your truth whenever and wherever I can. Let me be light in a dark world. Let me be Your voice. Your hands. Your feet. Amen.

Choose Wisely (Psalm 9:15-16)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:15-16

The Lord God loves us so much. He loves us so much He’s given us a choice: Follow Him or follow the world. And because He loves us so much, He honors the choice we make. If someone ends up separated from God for eternity, it’s because she has made a choice to do so. It’s the “pit which [she has] made … the net which [she] hid.”

No one will be able to say, “I didn’t know.” God truly has “made Himself known.” Through His creation. Through the testimonies of His children. Through so-called coincidences. So when judgment is one day executed, it will be just. It will be according to each person’s choice.

What choice have you made? What choice will you make? Are you going to sink into your own pit? Or will you accept truth? See the amazing intricacy of God’s creation. Listen to stories of men and women of true faith. Remember how God has worked miraculously.

And remember this: If you’ve never made a choice to follow God, you’ve already made your choice. Oh, choose wisely, my friend. Choose Him today.

Tell of His Praises (Psalm 9:13-14)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:13-14

A few years ago, I was cast in a dramatic version of The Cross and the Switchblade, and one evening shortly thereafter, I had the unique privilege of listening to a story. You may or may not be familiar with Teen Challenge, an international organization that ministers to gang members and addicts. It started back in the 50s when a rural preacher, David Wilkerson, felt called to reach out to “the least of these” in New York City. One of those young people was Nicky Cruz.

It was Nicky’s story I heard that evening . This is a man who knows what it means to have been “lifted up from the gates of death.” He was a hard-core gang leader. He even laughed at the sight of blood. But he met Jesus, and he’s spent his life doing exactly what the psalmist did: “tell of all [God’s] praises” and, that night, he proudly and boldly rejoiced in God’s salvation.

It was inspirational. And it reminded me of what I wrote on Monday. Because Nicky was willing to tell his story, countless people have come to know Jesus, and countless others have been inspired and challenged. Now you may not speak in front of crowds of hundreds or thousands, but you too can inspire and challenge others.

Tell your story. Tell of His praises. Rejoice in His salvation. You’ll touch lives. Guaranteed!

Sing and Tell! (Psalm 9:11-12)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:11-12

Two of my favorite things: singing praises to my Lord and declaring to others what He’s done in my life.

What a blessing to know when I do either, I’m obeying commandments! I’ve been equally blessed when I listen to others sing. And hearing how God has worked in others’ lives? I love it!

I love reading biographies and life stories of godly men and women who left a lasting legacy. I've been inspired time and time again by the lives of people like Corrie ten Boom, Deitrich Bonhoeffer, Elisabeth Elliot, and Susanna Wesley. Their faith through struggles and suffering, highs and lows never fail to touch my heart and strengthen my own faith.

How often do you tell your own story? And how often do you really listen to how God has worked in the lives of your brothers and sisters in Christ?

If you want to be inspired or encouraged or convicted, listen to those stories. Read biographies of men and women of faith. Your faith will grow. And you will be blessed.

Then go out and tell your own story of how God has worked in your life.

You'll be blessed as He blesses others through you.

My Stronghold (Psalm 9:9-10)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:9-10

Oh, how I love the opening words of these verses: "The Lord also will be a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble ..."

I’m not oppressed by a human enemy or tyrant, but living with chronic health issues can definitely be oppressive. Anyone who deals with the same problem knows exactly what I mean. So often, chronic ill health takes over my life. From the moment I wake up to the moment I fall asleep, my body reminds me of its aches and pains. I can’t ever forget.

But I’m not alone in my pain. God is with me. And it’s that confidence that allows me to make it through each day. And not just make it, but thrive.

I put my trust in my Lord because He’s been overwhelmingly faithful. He’s never left my side. He’s never forsaken me. Even when I turned my back on Him, He never left me. He’s too loving and gracious to even think of leaving His children.

I hope you’re as comforted by these words as I am. Never forget your stronghold.

The Lord Abides Forever! (Psalm 9:7-8)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:7-8

These verses touch my heart. In fact, I want to add them to my list of scriptures I want to memorize. They’re encouraging and affirming and confidence-building.

The Lord abides forever. Our all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving God is eternal. He’s always been and always will be.

He has established His throne for judgment. Every single person who’s lived, is now living, or will live in the future will stand before God’s throne. Each of us will either be judged for what we didn’t do (accept God’s gift of salvation) or awarded for what we did do (those things believers did to serve God and others).

And He will judge the world in righteousness. God is holy, righteous. We can be assured God will judge each of us through His heart of righteousness, through His eyes of love.

He will execute judgment for the peoples with equity. And in His righteousness, He’ll judge fairly. He’ll honor the decision many will make: To follow Him. He’ll equally honor the decision many others will make: to reject Him.  

So when you feel overwhelmed by life, when it seems the enemy is winning, remember: Our eternal God truly is in control. He is righteous and just. And fair. And loving.

What a good God we serve!

God Has My Back (Psalm 9:4-6)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:4-6

I don’t know if David meant them to be, but these verses are quite prophetic. If you read about the nations that fought against Israel in David’s time, you’ll see that many of them don’t exist any longer.

Then I read these verses again, and they become quite personal. I encourage you to read them the same way.

I’ve had “enemies.” I’ve faced the “wicked.” I’ve been attacked and abused. And even though I may not have seen it at the time, God always “maintained my just cause.” He always had my back, as they say. And although my own enemies may not have been destroyed, God has been gracious and has taken away the “very memory.” Or should I say, He’s taken away the power of those memories.

God continues to sit on His throne “judging righteously,” and I’m confident that one day anyone who hurt me, who hurt you, will be judged.

In the meantime, let God take the “very memory” of your own enemies from your heart and mind. Let Him remove the anger or unforgiveness you feel and replace it with His peace, His joy.

Stumbling Enemies (Psalm 9:3)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:3

We think we live in turbulent times … and we do indeed. However, if you read the Old Testament, you’ll see what turbulent times really were. David certainly knew turbulence. Constant wars. Enemies chasing him, seeking his death.

But he also knew God’s faithfulness. He knew he was God’s anointed king, and even through his sin and its consequences, David was confident in God’s ultimate protection. Time and time again, David prayed for victory over his enemies, and time and time again, God answered his prayer.

But not always. Sometimes the enemy won.

And sometimes the enemy seems to win against us as well. How often has someone hurt you or maligned you or tried to destroy you? The enemy wins—or at least it appears so. We pray that he’ll stumble, yet he doesn’t.

At those times, the only thing we can do is exactly what David did: Cry out to God and trust He’ll protect us—whether or not our enemy stumbles or turns back.

Most importantly, we can remember God is the ultimate Victor! 

Let Me Tell You a Story ... (Psalm 9:1-2)

Today's scripture: Psalm 9:1-2

What a wonderful privilege we have to serve the Sovereign Creator, the one true God, the Savior of mankind. He—the all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving God—can be known by those who choose to follow Him. He is personal. He desires a relationship with us. He’s not some far-off, disinterested God. Rather, He allows Himself to be intimately known.

How can we help but praise Him?

That’s why I love so many of the psalms and why I so enjoy meditating on them. The words of gratitude and praise are so encouraging—and sometimes convicting.

Take the opening verses of Psalm 9. I too can give thanks to the Lord with all my heart. I am glad and exult in Him. I do sing praises to His name.

The conviction? Those words, “I will tell of all Your wonders.”

He is a wonderful, amazing God. He blesses beyond expectation. He carries me through the darkest valleys. He causes even the most difficult moments to turn out for good. He loves me as His own daughter.

Yet, how often to I tell others of “all [His] wonders”? Not often enough. I remember hearing someone ask, “If you had a cure for cancer, wouldn’t you tell everyone you knew?” I have the “cure” for soul cancer. I have the best story to tell.

And I need to tell it much more often.

Lord God, I do thank You and praise You. I do give You glory. Please continue to convict my heart to tell Your story to anyone who’ll listen, so they might give You glory as well. Amen.

Join the Chorus! (Psalm 8:6-9)

Today's scripture: Psalm 8:6-9

The psalmist continues his praise of God’s amazing love for His children. Everything in this world, everything we see, touch, hear, was created to please Him and delight us.

He gave humankind “dominion over” everything. We are more important to God than any animal, bird, or fish. We are the only of His creation made in His very image. He is our Father. Our Abba. Our Daddy. And like any loving Father, He made a wonderful environment for us to live in.

All for us.

So we can join in a heartfelt chorus: “O LORD, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth!” Because, as amazing and wonderful this earth is, nothing is more amazing or wonderful than our Creator God. And we can speak His name with awe and joy and praise.

For His name is excellent, wonderful, worthy of praise. And worship. And honor. And glory.

Join in the chorus!

Because He Loves Us (Psalm 8:3-5)

Today's scripture: Psalm 8:3-5

When was the last time you sat and stared at a starlit sky? Marveled at its beauty? Considered the vastness of God’s creation?

It’s pretty humbling, isn’t it?

It’s time like this when the question of the psalmist becomes my question: “What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?” In other words, “Why do You care about us? What’s so great about sinful, flawed us?”

The main reason? Because He loves us.

God, the Creator of all things, who set each star in its place, who created mountains and seas and deserts … He is mindful of me. He thinks of me. He loves me. Tiny-speck-of-a-person me. And He loves tiny-speck-of-a-person you, too. He has made us just lower than the flawless beings the Bible calls angels. And He honors us as His specially-created children.

Think about how much God loves you the next time you look at a starlit sky. Or an ocean. Or a mountain. Or a flower. Or even the reflection in your own mirror.

An Infant's Chorus (Psalm 8:2)

Today's scripture: Psalm 8:2

I often like to read different translations or paraphrases of a certain verse, and today’s verse speaks to me much more in The Message paraphrase:

Nursing infants gurgle choruses about you;
toddlers shout the songs
that drown out enemy talk,
and silence atheist babble.

Don’t you love it? I truly believe there is nothing more beautiful than the giggle of a precious infant. Or the off-key “Jesus wuvs me” sung by an adorable two year old.

And those sounds, those heart-lifting sounds, “drown out enemy talk, and silence atheist babble.” Why? Because every time a baby is born, the intricacy and complexity of God’s creation is demonstrated once again. Tiny fingers. Tiny toes. Heart. Lungs. Eyes. A God-designed complete human being.

A miracle.

Non-believers can say what they will, but seriously, every infant, every toddler proclaims the existence of God. A loving, amazing God.

Call Him by Name (Psalm 8:1)

Today's scripture: Psalm 8:1

One of the things I love most about the Bible is that God is called by many names. And what I love about that is that I can find God by name in each and every situation. If I’m in pain, I can find Him by name. If I have a need, I can find Him by name. If I’m experiencing tremendous joy, I can find Him by name. If I’m lonely, I can find Him by name. This is such a blessing to my heart, and I hope it blesses your heart as well.

Let’s take a moment to look at how we can find God by name:

When you feel lonely, remember that God sees you and is there for you. You can find Him by calling El Roi: the God who sees (Genesis 16:13). When you have a need, remember that God will provide for you. You can find Him by calling Jehovah Jireh: the Lord will provide (Genesis 22:14). When you’re in pain, remember that you can find Jehovah Rophe: the God who heals (Exodus 15:26). When you’re frightened and unsure, remember that you can find the God who is your Refuge and your Strength (Psalm 46:1). When you’re feeling stressed or out of control, remember that God will calm your spirit. You can find Him by calling Jehovah Shalom: the Lord is peace (Judges 6:24). When you’re feeling unlovable and unloved, remember that you can find the God who is Love (1 John 4:16). When you’re surrounded by darkness, remember that you can find the God who is light, and “in Him is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). [Excerpted from The Best Laid Plans © 2005 by Sauni Rinehart]

No matter where you are, no matter what’s happening, you can call on God. By name.

Praise You, Lord! (Psalm 7:17)

Today’s scripture: Psalm 7:17

I’ll be the first to admit that Psalm 7 wasn’t the easiest to get through, but I absolutely LOVE how it concludes!

As I’ve mentioned many times, one of my favorite ways to worship is through music. The scriptures give us so many words and phrases to do exactly that.

I can sing of His great mercy and faithfulness (Lam. 3:22-23). I can praise His amazing grace (Eph. 2:8). I can worship His majesty (1 Chr. 29:11).

He is indeed great and greatly to be praised (1 Chr. 16:25).

So today, “I will praise you, Lord! You always do right. I will sing about you, the Lord Most High” (CEV).