Daily Devotionals
Daily Devotional: Psalms 107:17-22
Psalms 107:17-22
17 Some became fools through their rebellious ways and suffered affliction because of their iniquities. 18 They loathed all food and drew near the gates of death. 19 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. 20 He sent forth his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave. 21 Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men. 22 Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of his works with songs of joy.
It is so easy for us to get caught up in the day to day problems of this world. We have to take care of our homes, our children, our jobs or whatever it may be that occupies our time. There is nothing wrong with these as many of them are necessary and not optional. It is for this very reason that we must make time to be alone with God and spend time reading his word and talking with him in prayer. Without this, we will die spiritually.
Jesus left us an example in this. He was often pressed by the crowds as they clamored for healing, food or just trying to listen to him speak. He would be very tired in the evening but would often go off by himself to pray. He told his disciples to take time to be alone with God. At times he got up early to have his time with the Father. It is not important what time of day best fits our schedule as long as we make sure that we include it in our every day.
As we spend more time with the Father, we will begin to see the many blessings he has showered upon us. We will learn to be more thankful for what we have and what he has done in our lives. We will also (if we are honest about his word) see things that need to be corrected in our lives so we can be more like him. We will recognize attitude adjustments that need to be made. We will see things we are doing or saying that need to be left off. We will be made aware of things we are not doing that we need to make a part of our lives.
God is so good to us. He is watching us with an eye to protect us and deliver us from all evil. He does care when we are troubled and distressed and wants us to lean on him and trust him in all things. Jesus is truly our friend.
O God, my heavenly Father, I thank you for all you do for me and for all you have given me in my life. Help me keep my eyes focused on you and the things above instead of the things of this earth. Help me use what you have given me to your glory instead of my own selfish desires. I ask for wisdom to know what to do and say (or not do and not say) each moment of today so that you will be glorified and someone will be lead closer to you. Forgive me when I fail. Give me strength and self-control to be like Jesus. I pray in his name.
--Robert
