THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus
Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Lord, how many times did I sigh as my circumstances became bleaker by the day. My industry’s job market is dwindling, I have more dust bunnies than food in the pantry, and the kids need shoes. Plus, if I don’t do something with this hair, people will mistake me for a dust mop. I could write a best-seller about shoe-string budgets.

From the ancient psalmist to today’s Gen Zer’s, all are subject to challenging times. The psalmist certainly experienced his share of journeys through the valley. When he faced trials in his own strength and ingenuity, his troubles increased. Only after abandoning his way of living and adopting your precepts for life, did he see his much-needed turnaround. His story echoes mine. And probably millions of others.

I imagine the psalmist meditating about his plight, then in an act of faith, releasing his circumstances to you. Did his radiance change as your peace came over his soul, knowing you had his situation in hand? Perhaps your Spirit softly rebuked him, “Why didn’t you trust me to begin with?”

Did the psalmist change his tune like I changed mine? Going from, “No way this will end well!” to “Lord, you amaze me how you work all things for my good.” When he penned his great Psalm 111, he declared your goodness and graciousness to all generations who believe you.

“How amazing are the deeds of the Lord! All who delight in him should ponder them” (Psalm 111:2 NLT).

How many times did you come through for the psalmist? And how many times did he fail to see your hand in action? After dwelling on your goodness, you opened his spiritual eyes to see clearly you were there all along.

Jesus, centuries later, you would teach your followers, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8).

Thank you, Lord, for always being there for all who believe you. Amen, Jesus.