Grace CRC Midweek Devotion: Week Seven
Scripture: Read Psalm 40 and Jonah 2:2-9
Devotion from ‘A Louder Song’ NavPress: The entire book of Psalms is a beautiful anthology of poems and songs, which express deep theology. The psalm from our reading today was written by David, who reminds us that though it may feel like God is absent, God is actually near.
Like most psalms, this is a song and like most songs, it expresses deep emotion. What emotions do you sense from reading this Psalm? What kind of situation might David be facing? Do you find yourself in a similar “pit?” While in his pit, David had to do only one thing—wait patiently for the Lord—God did everything else.
David and Jonah, from our second reading today, were stuck in pain and trouble. But they continually looked to God for rescue. No matter how long it takes, both men knew that God would eventually meet them.
Sometimes, it feels as though God is taking a long time. But don’t give up, friend. Wait patiently on the Lord. He will show up and set your feet on firm foundation once more.
During my own season of suffering (see day one), God never answered me with perfect solutions or resolutions, but as I waited patiently for the Lord, He showed up in powerful ways.
I have no doubt He is with you in your darkest days. He is indeed our rescuer. Do not give up, friend. Pour out your heart to Him today. And above all, remember this—our hope in suffering is never found by “looking on the bright side.”
Hope for the Christian is always about the object of our hope, Jesus. He is on the throne, in control, and bringing about the renewal of all who call upon His name. He sees what you are going through and will reveal His love to you in new, incredible ways.
Reflect:
- Attribute: What attribute of God* did His Spirit reveal to you as you read the passages? Worship Him for who He is and how this attribute has impacted your relationship with Him.
- Pray: Thank the Holy One for your current season. Ask Him for patience as you trust in Him to bring you through any and every difficulty. Turn your eyes to Jesus and call upon His name – the One who knows you, loves you and will bring you once again into a season of jubilee. Lift up our suffering world, our nation, your church, your friends, your family and especially those around you who do not have the hope of our risen Savior. Place all in His care and wait with confidence on Him to fight your battles.
- One Kind Act: Ask God to bring 3 people to your mind. Bathe these 3 in prayer for the rest of the day or for as long as your Father brings them to your mind.