SCRIPTURE: Psalm 138
“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life.” (Psalm 138:7)
At one time, being a Christian was being a part of the majority culture.
That is changing, being a follower of Jesus is no longer culturally normal.
Now there are many gods and religions (also atheism, the religion of ‘no god’).
Personally I think Christianity is stronger in the Lord when it is weaker in the world.
We become more aware of the contrast between God and the gods (God outshines them all).
The veneer of religion wears off, and sinful reality is exposed for what it is.
We realize our dependence on God, our need for mercy and grace and wisdom.
I believe in Jesus now more than ever, I see and feel how desperately we need Him.
As our world changes, I feel less and less at home in the world… as it is.
Not personally feeling the pressure of persecution yet, but I sense it’s coming.
“The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever — do not abandon the works of your hands.” (Psalm 138:8)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, in this broken, messed up world, You preserve my life. Make me bold for You before the ‘gods’ in a humble, loving way, that people may see and know what makes You so great!
Observation/Application
God be praised.
When?
At all times for His faithfulness and love
because He responds
and holds me up.
Sing praises. Sing praises for what He has done!
Open my eyes Lord that I may see daily that greatness.
Help me daily to sing of Your glory.
As the king oes, so go the people
and
the kings need to praise You
so that all will praise You.
I am in the palm of Your hand at all times in all situations
for You love Your people
and will never leave them alone.
I am never alone.
My God is always and forever with me
because His love never fades
and He continues to use me for His purpose.
I am always within His reach.
He is like a ‘helicopter’ parent
taking care of me
Always
in all circumstances.
At all times praise the Lord;
His promises are sure;
What if thou doubt? His steadfast Word
Unchanging shall endure.
Praise Him when skies are bright,
And gladness fills thy days;
Heav’n shames thee with its glorious light,
And calls thee to His praise.
Praise Him when clouds are dark;
True faith waits not to prove;
Tho’ hope no bright’ning gleam may mark,
His meaning still is love.
Praise Him when drear and lone
The shadows ’round thee fall,
No eye upon Thy sins but One—
Fear not, He pardons all.
Praise Him when home is sweet,
As tho’ we ne’er should part;
But pray—while kindred spirits meet—
Pray for a thoughtful heart.
Praise Him when far away
On mountain or on sea;
Each place is home to them who pray;
The Father guardeth thee.
Praise Him when joyful songs
The saints on earth unite,
In sacred chorus, with the throngs
Of angels in the height.
At all times praise the Lord;
His promises are sure;
Fear not, doubt not; His steadfast Word
Unchanging shall endure.