“Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.” Psalm 25:1-2 (KJV)
The songwriter said, “you are my hiding place.” In this world of unknowns, it is a wonderful reminder of God’s care and promise. It is such a comfort to know that he said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Heb. 13:5). Since he has promised this, we know that we can call anytime, anywhere, and he will hear. The challenge is to not become so comfortable and familiar that we demand a rose-garden-life. No matter what occurs in our lives, we can trust the one who has promised to always be with us. That trust may be the best legacy we can leave our families and friends.
While it is true that we live in a world where violence and suffering is an everyday occurrence; where terrorism is a reality; where wars are commonplace; and where disease kills millions regularly. It is equally true that new medical breakthroughs occur regularly; peace negotiations take place; terrorists have not defeated us; the violent are locked away; we can still be comforted; and God is still in control. Hallelujah!
At the end of Paul’s life and ministry, he told the Ephesian elders: “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:24 (KJV)
He had daily committed his soul to the Lord and he would no be deterred by life’s circumstances. He trusted in God and his only concern was to faithfully complete the ministry he had been given. Perhaps the issues which surrounded him were depressing but he refused to be defeated by them. The only way to possess this quality of commitment is to lift up our souls to Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Unto you O Lord, we lift up our souls for this day and its challenges. We trust in you and believe your promises. We are dependent upon you for victory over all our enemies. We know that in you we will never be ashamed. Bless your holy name! Glory to you and you alone! For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are all yours forever. AMEN
Let us praise God for Jesus Christ and trust him with our lives,