Our Reading: Psalm 33, Isaiah 42:10-13 & John 1:14

If we have been on this earth more than a few decades, we have to realize that there are startling and drastic cultural changes that have transformed the world we live in before our very eyes. If we focus too much on the news and headlines or political rhetoric, we may find ourselves scratching our heads in disbelief and wondering “ Has the world gone mad?”  It can be very unsettling and anxiety producing when life feels chaotic and uncertain and the future looks gloomy and foreboding. The world can seem very dark and overrun with evil. Psalm 33 is one of those encouraging Psalms, reminding us that God is on His throne and very much overseeing all that is going on. 

1. He is faithful!  “For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness.” v4.
2. He has established order. “He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord.” v5
3. He is in complete control and all of earth should be in awe of His ability. “Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him! For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm.” v8-9
4. His plans prevail over the plans of man. “The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations.” v10-11
5. He is not fooled by man and will require accountability for his motives and actions. “from where he sits enthroned he looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth, he who fashions the hearts of them all and observes all their deeds.” v14-15
6. The power and position of man is an illusion. Only God can ultimately save mankind. “The king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength. The war horse is a false hope for salvation, and by its great might it cannot rescue. Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love, that he may deliver their soul from death…”v16-19

We have to counter the discouragement of living in this fallen, corrupt world by remembering that God is still in control and overseeing every facet of our lives and even the complex details of world events. We are not living in this particular time by accident. We are purposed to be here and be used by Him. Because He is our hope, we can rejoice and share that hope with those around us. 

“For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name.” V21

Reflection:

1. What do your words and actions portray to those around you about where your trust is?  
2. Do you struggle with worry and fret about the future or do you focus on the One who sits on the throne, overseeing it all? 
3. Are you making yourself available to be used by Him in your current circumstances to bring Him glory and praise? 

Prayer: Beloved Father, we bring You our praise, our wonder and awe!  You are enthroned and in control which gives us hope and strength to face each and every day. Your righteous plans prevail over the plans of the enemy and Your light overcomes the darkness. Your love and guidance are our daily companions. Help us to be encouraged from Your Word and to share that encouragement with others. Thank You for Your steadfast love!