Devotion for November 14, 2022

“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes” (Psalm 37:7).

We are under no illusions as God’s people that we will suffer in different ways at the hands of others. This looks different for all of us, but it is there.

Firstly, an encouragement: God does not send these circumstances to improve or change us. We know that he will work through these circumstances for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28), but that is not the same as organising them for us as some sort of faith formation. Of course, our faith does form and transform as we rely on him in these hard times. We may feel closer to the Lord in the valley than on the mountain top.

Secondly: We know that the psalms are here to express all the forms of human emotion we have and give words to our feelings when we have none. If this psalm today does not speak to your situation right now, have a flick through (or an internet search!) to find one that fits and gives voice to your prayers and praises.

Finally: We have some wonderful advice here. Be still and wait patiently for the Lord. Don’t fret. There are evil schemes, and our battle is not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:12) and, yes, sometimes, “people succeed in their ways” and “their wicked schemes”. We are not promised an easy ride; Christianity is not a crutch, and sometimes we are not rescued. But we have encouragement and resources here — and an assurance that “help is on the way”.

Prayer

Lord, I am assured that You are always with me, to be my strength and shield on this path through life. Give me Your peace to trust in You all my days. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Stay encouraged!

Pastor Mike

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Pastor Bailey
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