THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Lord, did the “T” stand for Trouble when the writer of the psalms, David T. Psalmist, wrote his songs? He wrote about his enemies trying to kill him because he put his faith in you. Other instances found them chasing him because he did something boneheaded, and they wanted revenge. Regardless of the reasons why his enemies pursued him, he ran to one safeguard in all his troubles. You, Lord God, were his God, his shelter, his refuge, his hiding place.

“Send out your light and your truth; let them guide me. Let them lead me to your holy mountain,
to the place where you live.” — Psalm 43:3 (NLT)

Before trouble comes, Lord, may we set you as our default. It’s not enough that we desire increased knowledge of who you are, but also give us clearer understanding of the truths of your Word—the depths of your love, your mercy, your sovereignty. The psalmist saw the bottomless cavern of your love, mercy, and grace and dove headfirst into all you prepared for him. May we do the same.

When the psalmist kept your precepts, you led him into the safety of your presence. You became his fortress against his enemies, relief from his troubles, and rest for his weary soul. The same truth that the psalmist lived 3000 years ago still strengthens us today: nothing refreshes our spirits like reclining in your presence.

“There I will go to the altar of God, to God—the source of all my joy …”— Psalm 43:4 (NLT)

The joy of your presence, Lord, is our strength. Only You can change our “T” from Trouble to “Tranquility.”

Amen, Jesus.