Today’s Scripture readings: Psalm 55, Jer. 17:5-10,14-17, Phil. 4:1-13, John 12:27-36
Today’s writer: Lane Bahr
In our scripture readings today, we find a common theme of men crying out to God in times of extreme trial. I am struck by the profound confidence David, Jeremiah, Paul, and Jesus have in God’s answer to their prayers and His provision for them.
At the end of David’s eloquent prayer for protection, stands a clear testimony of his faith in Psalm 55:28 “But as for me, I trust in you.”
Jeremiah declares in 15:7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.”
In Phillippians 4:1 Paul tells the people to “stand firm in the Lord,” and declares in 4:13 “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
I am convicted by these strong, stirring testimonies of faith, and I have to ask myself what is my first response in difficult times? Do I turn to God first? Do I trust that He will answer my prayers? In all honesty, I must admit that I often try to soldier through and handle it myself! I depend on my own human strength, intellect, or feelings. Over time, God has taught me a lesson or two about how inadequate my abilities are to deal with overwhelming circumstances.
In light of the examples set by these men of the Bible, my response is, Lord, help me to turn to you first in prayer, trusting in your good provision for me and those whom I love!
