Help me, Oh God, to let go of my fears and reach out to you at all times, secure in the knowledge that you will steady me when I tremble and catch me when I fall. Thank you for always being at my side.
Oh Lord, it’s not enough to just believe in you; many people do that. We must do more; we actually have to believe you! Help us overcome our unbelief so that we really do rely on your presence, trust in the power of your promises, and expect you to do the impossible.
These were the words of a young shepherd boy, armed only with a stick, a sling and five stones. They were said to a nine-foot tall giant, wearing 125 pounds of armor and armed with a huge spear. The boy, however, knew he had a secret weapon: the power of God!
Oh Lord, show us how to be like David. Give us both faith in you and confidence in our ability to meet whatever challenge you present. May we never cower in the face of what seem to be overpowering obstacles. What giants do you want me to slay today?
Help us remember that both mountain tops and deep canyons are inevitable in life. Thank you, Lord, for never abandoning us, no matter where we happen to be. When we are in the depths of life, when we are disappointed, hurt or discouraged, remind us that you have provided all that is required to pass through those dark places. We just need to stop depending on our own strength and power and follow you, our Lord and Shepherd. You will lead us safely through all the valleys of life.
Paul assures us that God is always working in us and through the events in our lives. When we face adversity or suffer misfortune, however, it is difficult to see how our circumstances could possibly glorify God or serve His purpose. How do we make sense of sorrow or hardship? Where is God’s hand in our troubles? Why is there suffering or affliction?
Those questions are unnecessary because we don’t need to know the answers. Besides, even if we knew the answers, we would never be able to understand them! All we really have to do is trust God and know that He loves us. Remember, God knows what he is doing even though we don’t!
Even when we doubt Him, even when we fail to see Him, even when we won’t trust Him, God is here for us. This is His promise!
Devotions of the Heart 