Devotion for Friday, June 9, 2023

“They have tails like scorpions, and stings; and in their tails is their power to hurt men for five months” (Revelation 9:10).

Yes, a day is coming when what this means will be fully known.  The sting of pestilence is quick, but the aftermath is long.  We give things a day or two and then we want bad things to go away.  The Lord leaves in place what He leaves in place and we should be thankful for His provision in every season.  You have been hurt because of sin.  All sin has been heaped upon Christ.  Your hurt has become His hurt and His overcoming should be yours also.

Lord, the mystery of this is great.  I often wonder and ask, “Why don’t You remove the pain of the world?”  And you answered by taking pain upon Yourself.  You have also given us the promise that all things work together for good for those who love You.  When I put these two things together, it is very mysterious.  Lead me out of the pit of wanting to figure all things out so that I learn to simply trust You amongst all the perplexing things of my life.

Savior of the world, who died in my place, You poured Yourself out in order that I might be filled up with You.  Take the portion of sin in me that remains and fill me with You.  Let me be emptied of myself so that I can focus on You and my neighbors.  Guide me in Your goodness and mercy to be kind to others and love them as You have loved me.  Through all that will come upon me, help my eyes to turn You first, always, and in every circumstance.  Amen.