Finding hope in God’s goodness
Terror will grip them, for God is with those who obey him. The wicked frustrate the plans of the oppressed, but the Lord will protect his people. – Psalms 14:5-6
As I am reading through the book of Psalms it seems like these chapters were written much more recently than during the time of King David. The things that he wrote about so long ago, sound like they could have very accurately been written yesterday. As David described the condition of the world when he was here, it doesn’t sound like much has changed. Oh yeah, maybe we are a little more comfortable and seemingly more civilized, but I guarantee you that the hearts of people over all are just as dark as they were back in King David’s day.
In the same way that people are the same as they have always been, so God is also the same God that He has always been and always will be. Psalms 14 says that God is looking from heaven to see if there is anyone who understands or is seeking God for navigating this life. He is watching over His people and looking for those who are ready to start following wisdom and His ways instead of stumbling in the dark like the foolish of the world do.
Hopefully, that is where He finds you and me. Not groping around in fear and ignorant ways like those who have no hope or help. Hopefully, God’s people will be found trusting in His protection and provision instead of trusting in the uncertainty of politicians, world leaders and even selfishness.
In the world we live in today that used to look like a gradual decline but now has escalated into a landslide decent from moving in God’s direction to now doing things as it seems right in our own hearts, God’s steadfast love and grace are still abundantly available to every person on the face of the planet. There is no shortage in supply and there is no limit to accessing His gifts. What a contrast Psalms 14 gives between human waywardness and our heavenly Father’s divine faithfulness. Despite the extreme differences, this Psalms still offers hope and encouragement for those who seek God in the middle of a world that tends to run away from Him.
As part of the family of God, we are comforted in knowing that God is with us through all the craziness of the earth today. No matter how overwhelming the evil around us might seem, our Father in heaven lives with those who are faithful to His call and direction. His presence brings peace and courage to stand against the challenges that we face each day. We can run to our Father for refuge, and He will not only protect us personally, but He will also ensure that we will have all that we need to get our mission and life assignment done right in the middle of the darkness we live in. We find shelter and strength as we purpose to walk closely with Him in our everyday life, trusting His wisdom in every area and decision we make.
Today I want to encourage you that even though it looks like there is nothing new under the sun, to seek God diligently! Go after His plans and His purpose and trust Him for the empowering grace to follow His leading. Your pursuit of His ways are not in vain and your efforts are seen and valued by His watchful eyes. As you determine to live according to His will and ways, you can trust that God’s presence will be your constant companion and guide. Life is challenging and sometimes leaves you feeling vulnerable and oppressed but be assured today that God is your refuge and will protect and support you when facing adversities. He cares for you deeply and will hold you up in every struggle you have in life. Put your hope and trust in Him today and stay confident that His salvation and restoration are not only possible but also promised to those who are seeking Him. Let that hope empower you to endure hardship by knowing that God’s deliverance is a sure thing, and His plans are always good.
Today’s scripture reading: Psalms 14
1 The fool has said in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none who does good.
2 The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
3 They have all turned aside, they have together become corrupt; There is none who does good, no, not one.
4 Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up my people as they eat bread, and do not call on the Lord?
5 There they are in great fear, for God is with the generation of the righteous.
6 You shame the counsel of the poor, but the Lord is his refuge.
7 Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come out of Zion! When the Lord brings back the captivity of His people, let Jacob rejoice and Israel be glad.
The Daily Dose 