THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Monday, April 22, 2024

Lord, you gave Christ followers your promises of a secure future, here on Earth, and later in Heaven. Following you would not lead to disappointment (Proverbs 23:18).

How naïve to think life will always be wine and roses. Far from it. Ups and downs, good times, and times of grief happen on a regular basis. How often have we said, “Wow, Jesus! You’re incredible!” How often have we slapped our forehead and said, “oh, no, Jesus! What’s gonna happen next?”

One truth the believer can count on is your promises remain steadfast. Without difficulties, how would we know your power to deliver us from the evil one, or comfort us in our darkest hour? The psalmist wrote his 23rd Psalm from personal experience, describing the goodness of God during the hardships of life.

He wandered restlessly before finding the “green pastures” his life desperately needed. Only you could turn the storm that raged within his soul into still waters. He never walked alone through the “valley of the shadow of death.” He experienced the death of his dreams, his ambitions, his desires. He “put to death” his will to be the “lord of his life,” and submitted to your will. Submission meant trusting your “rod and staff,” though painful at times, were for his good, and would lead him in the paths of your righteousness.

Lord, all the psalmist could offer you was a battered and wounded soul that needed restoration to contentment and peace with you. That’s your specialty. Only you could do that, Jesus. Who else can restore our bruised and tattered souls today? Only you, Jesus. Only you.

Amen