Daily Devotionals
Daily Devotional: Psalms 124:1-8
Psalms 124:1-8
1 If the LORD had not been on our side--let Israel say--2 if the LORD had not been on our side when men attacked us, 3 when their anger flared against us, they would have swallowed us alive; 4 the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us, 5 the raging waters would have swept us away. 6 Praise be to the LORD, who has not let us be torn by their teeth. 7 We have escaped like a bird out of the fowler's snare; the snare has been broken, and we have escaped. 8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
When we read the book of Proverbs we are reminded just how dangerous pride can be. There is probably no temptation we face that is easier to give into than is pride because it make us feel good about ourselves. Someone has pointed out that when we are criticized or corrected we immediately think that person just does not understand or know the facts about us and our situation. However, when we receive a compliment we believe that person is right and we really are that good. Pride and arrogance lead to a fall and destruction.
When we give all the credit to God for things in our lives, we have a basis for standing. Instead of pride we are thankful. The good thing about this is that God can take the least likely person and accomplish the most amazing things. He can use the smallest group to win the largest battles. He can turn the impossible into reality. God knows and has no limits on what he can do.
It was pride that destroyed the reign of King Saul, the first king of Israel. Even though he had begun his reign considering himself small in his own eyes, he lifted himself above the rule of God and did things his own way. David became king and none could have been more humble than he. Yet, after being king for many years, he too became proud, numbered the people and boasted in his own strength. He too was punished for this arrogant attitude. While we need to admit and use our abilities and responsibilities, we never forget that God has given them to us to use for his glory. Humility gives God the credit for all things.
O God, my heavenly Father, I thank you for what you have given me in this life. I thank you for the many material things, the abilities, my friends and family. Help me use all I have and all I am to bring glory to you and to your name. Never let me forget that without you I am nothing and can do nothing. Please open the hearts and minds of the leaders of our country to your will. Help them know that you are the only real ruler and all things are under your control. Give me strength to do what I can to make my world a better place by sharing your gospel with those who are lost. May your name be glorified in all things. In Jesus name.
--Robert
