July 11
Psalms 115-118
Our lives are busy and often confusing. There are so many distractions and detours in each and every day that it is easy to forget about God as our day unfolds. It is a good idea to take some time and write what the Psalmist writes in Psalm 116:1, “I love the Lord, because…”. Then list those things that you love about Him. In this way you will call to mind the many reasons to praise Him.
When phrases are repeated in Scripture it is worth taking note of them. When we praise Him and worship Him, we are ascribing worth to Him. So we read the recurrent phrase in Psalm 115:9-11, “He is your helper and your shield”. In 118:1-4, we read, “His faithful love endures forever”. In 118:10-12, we read, “I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord”. In any given day how much of it do we take the credit, do we ascribe worth to ourselves? When we ascribe worth to Him and rightfully place ourselves in His arms and under His guidance and protection, we can boldly state, as is said in 118:6, “The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?”
Each day is filled with so much uncertainty, often accompanied with so much fear and anxiety. This is often because we face life independent of God. Sure we will have trials, and many will be difficult, but we have a God who is real, present, loving, and who will not take His eyes off of His children. Who doesn’t want to experience peace in our current situation? It is good to remember first and foremost who God is and why He is trustworthy. Then approach Him constantly in prayer, as we read in Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV), “ Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Messages from Pastor Lloyd Pulley: