Monday, June 29, 2009

I will not fear

Good morning. This is a devotional for single adults from Parenting Solo, but the message also applies to single adults without children who may one day marry a single parent and be a step-parent. Feel Free to forward it to a friend.

Scripture: Psalm Psalm 46:1-2 (NIV) God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.

Trouble can come in many forms. Divorce, loss of relationship, unemployment, foreclosure, addiction: The list goes on infinitely. In this Psalm, the trouble comes possibly from the end times, as evidenced by “mountains fall into the … sea.”

No matter what the circumstances, God is there to help us, and to give refuge to the needy. We know we can feel secure and at peace because of God’s presence in our life. That kind of confidence comes only from a relationship with the living God. Even if it isn’t the end times, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods can still have devastating affects for years to come. I saw the damage down by Hurricane Rita three years ago in rural Louisiana, and I saw what it did to the spirit o the community.

When a natural disaster like Rita happens, it’s easy to be scared. “Is it going to happen again? What do I need to do? Should we move or stay?” Those are all worthy sentiments in times of trouble. What the Psalmist tells us is not to worry. He reminds the Israelites that God has always delivered them, and he will do so again. “We will not fear” is a pretty positive statement amid the turmoil. The word “therefore” is an adverb, meaning “consequently.” Another words, because God has been faithful in the past, he will be faithful again in the future. We can bank it.

How do you react in times of strife? Do you panic? Do you worry? Are you fearful? Or are at peace and without fear? Those who walk with the Lord tend to be without fear, because they remind themselves of God’s faithfulness. If you’re going through hard times, God promises it won’t last forever. Just lean on him, and he will keep you upright. God’s provision is not temporary; it’s something we can count on – always.

How does this apply to my life?

Today’s prayer: Lord, help me to walk confidently in knowing you will take care of me. Help me to trust you in trying times. Amen

Doug Mead
Parenting Solo

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved.
Vol. 4, No. 67

This week’s reading plan can be found at http:/www.oneyearbibleonline.com/june.asp?version=51

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