Because 50 Day 41
Scripture Reading: Psalm 3
1Lord, how many are my foes!
How many rise up against me!
2Many are saying of me,
“God will not deliver him.”
3But you, Lord, are a shield around me,
my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
4I call out to the Lord,
and he answers me from his holy mountain.
5I lie down and sleep;
I wake again, because the Lord sustains me.
6I will not fear though tens of thousands
assail me on every side.
7Arise, Lord!
Deliver me, my God!
Strike all my enemies on the jaw;
break the teeth of the wicked.
8From the Lord comes deliverance.
May your blessing be on your people.
Today’s Prayer:
God, use us, as your church, to encourage and build people up.
Going Deeper:
I appreciate the vulnerability of Michael in today’s video. Can you remember a time when you felt surrounded by adversity or struggles and couldn’t find a way out? There was a time a few years ago when I was going through a difficult season. I had a strong sense that I was causing hurt and pain for others and it was overwhelming me. In a journal, I wrote the following:
“Broken. In despair, I cry. How long with this go on? When will this all end? Will there be anyone left by my side by then? The questions flood through my mind. My hope is vanquishing. My heart is breaking into the finest pieces. My bones are weak and mind jumbled. Help me God! I need your wisdom and help. I need you. Please.”
The good news is that we are not alone. The Christian life was designed to be lived out in community. During that season in my life, Heath Farmer, one of the Henderson Campus Pastors, called me just to encourage me. His words were a source of hope in the midst of a dark season.
David went through a similar season and he found his hope and confidence in God. I love the passage that Michael referenced earlier. David describes the Lord as “a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head.” He also says that God is his sustainer. Perhaps you are going through a difficult season right now. Know that God has designed you. He formed you. And He will sustain you. You have not been forgotten, and He hears you. If you’re in the midst of a struggle right now, spend time talking with God about it. Ask for His aid and more importantly His presence and power alive in you.
Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to encourage others. Like Michael’s friend did speaking into his life, like Heath did by calling me that day. Take time to call a person, send them a message, jot them a note and let them know that you are thinking of them and praying for them today.
Resource: Abba’s Child by Brennan Manning