“You shed abroad a plentiful rain, O God; You confirmed Your inheritance when it was parched.  Your creatures settled in it; You provided in Your goodness for the poor, O God.”  (Psalm 68:9-10)

Think for a moment on the reality of this world.  In spite of all that man does to man, humanity has been fed, blessed and cared for.  Throughout history all that is needed has been provided.  The widow and the orphan are provided for.  The hungry are fed.  The Lord provides, but we must work by the sweat of our brow.  He brings the rain in due season and the fields are refreshed.

I listen to those who say otherwise, and I believe their report.  Lead me back to the simple truth that You provide what is needed in due season.  I have little to complain about Lord, for You provide for all of those in need.  Guide me into a frame of mind that simply sees the goodness You have provided for all with the seasons unfolding as You have planned that we may praise You.

Lord Jesus, teach me to praise You in season and out of season.  Guide me in the way I should go and empower my feet to walk in that way.  Lead me by the example You have given to walk as You walked and to live as You would have me live.  In all things, help me to be thankful and know that in You alone is the hope of all people, for You alone modeled the way we need to go.  Amen.

Thursday, January 4, 2018 Devotion

“You have crowned the year with Your bounty, and Your paths drip with fatness.  The pastures of the wilderness drip, and the hills gird themselves with rejoicing.  The meadows are clothed with flocks and the valleys are covered with grain; they shout for joy, yes, they sing.”  (Psalm 65:11-13)

In every season you can see the hand of the Lord.  Life is created, sustained and given bounty in spite of all human interference.  God provides and keeps the balance.  Do not be deceived, for the mocker will claim it is chance; but the hand of the Lord is clearly seen for all who will look.  Look, see and rejoice in God your Savior who provides for even the birds of the air.

Lord, I get caught up in the propaganda of this age which continuously throws things my way so that I am unable to think clearly.  Help me see that You have provided for all of our needs and have done so amply.  Guide my thinking to see each day the joy of the bounty You give that I may be one who praises You in all circumstances.  You are good and Your goodness shines through each day.

Lord, the greatest bounty of all is the grace You purchased from the cross.  You gave Yourself that all who look and see may look upon You and see the invitation to come and join with You forever.  Lead my heart to follow after You, Lord Jesus, knowing that You have come to lead the way into the greatest bounty of all.  Help me walk through, around or over every obstacle to remain with You.  Amen.