Daily Devotionals
Daily Devotional: Psalms 69:13-18
Ps 69:13-18
13 But I pray to you, O LORD, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation. 14 Rescue me from the mire, do not let me sink; deliver me from those who hate me, from the deep waters. 15 Do not let the floodwaters engulf me or the depths swallow me up or the pit close its mouth over me. 16 Answer me, O LORD, out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me. 17 Do not hide your face from your servant; answer me quickly, for I am in trouble. 18 Come near and rescue me; redeem me because of my foes.
2 Cor 9:6-8
6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
As we give ourselves to God, we also give ourselves to each other. As we follow the attitude of Jesus and consider others better than ourselves, we realize that we are simply his servants. Every act of kindness, be it a smile, a cup of water or a large gift of money, is seen by our Father and is not forgotten. We don’t give so we can get in return but we give because giving brings us peace and joy.
Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive. This goes against everything in us and in our society. But he also said to treat others the way we want to be treated and not as they have treated us. It was the same teacher who said we are not to return evil for evil but a blessing instead and when we are slapped in the face, turn the other side instead of hitting them back.
This becomes both possible and increasingly easier when we realize that this world is not our home but we are simply getting ready for that eternal mansion where all is peace and love. What we have, no matter how much or how little, is only a gift for us to enjoy for a short time and to be used to the glory of God.
Heavenly Father it is such a blessing to be able to give to others and to share my love with them, even as you have given so much to me and shared your love with me. Give me a servant attitude in every part of my life. Help me be true to my own convictions as I study your word but help me remember that no matter how much I am convinced, your word is truth, not my thinking. Help me be patient and kind, full of love and always ready to give of myself and forgiving. Give wisdom to those in the leadership of our nation. Give your protection to those who are fighting the virus and helping others get well. In the name of Jesus I humbly pray.
Robert
