October 13 -- "Near to the Brokenhearted"

Today’s Reading: Psalm 34

"Near to the Brokenhearted"

We are in the period of David’s life where he has become a prolific writer of musical lyrics that will one day be compiled into the Book of Psalms. The Hebrew word for Psalms is “Tehillim,” which literally translated means “Praises.”  Thus, the Book of Psalms is a compilation of praises in the form of Hebrew poems, songs, and prayers.  David was a poet and harp player and is credited with writing about half of the 150 Psalms found in our Old Testament.  Many of these poems and songs came to be used by the choirs that sang in Israel’s temple worship services.  And many are still sung today as a means of worship by the Christian church around the world.

Psalm 34 is a Psalm that invites the reader to “taste and see that the LORD is good” (Verse 8). It is a song about the goodness of God and all the blessings that He brings to those who seek Him and praise Him continually.  Some of these blessings include: gladness, freedom from fear, radiant faces, not being ashamed, protection, having no lack, living and loving many days, prayers that are heard, deliverance from affliction, and the promise of redemption.  Wow!  What an amazing song/poem.  It is a song that should be always on our hearts.

In verse 18, David says that the “LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”  It is one of the amazing characteristics of our God that He recognizes our moments of disappointment and sorrow and makes it His undertaking to come alongside us with His nearness and saving presence.

We all go through periods in our lives when we are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit.  Perhaps a relationship has broken down, or a loved one has passed away, or an opportunity has been lost, or sickness has afflicted our body or the body of a loved one, or the pain of loneliness has set in.  In one way or another, brokenheartedness is part of the human experience.  When those crushing moments come, we must respond by remembering that our God is near and wants to save us with His grace and love.  There are three key points to see in this promise from God.

First, GOD IS CLOSE.  He is ever present. There is nowhere we can go (or nothing we can go through) where God is not there.  If we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us (James 4:8).  When difficulties and sadness come your way, don’t pull away from God. Instead, let His comforting Spirit encircle your broken heart.

Second, He is near TO THE BROKEN HEARTED. It is often the brokenhearted who see Him best and sense His comforting presence the most. He is not a God who is unaffected by our pain.  He longs to bring comfort and encouragement to our downcast souls.

Finally, HE SAVES THE CRUSHED IN SPIRIT. This statement takes God’s work a step further.  He not only is near, but He wants to intervene in our moments of brokenheartedness. His nearness is there to save us.  He is a mighty saving God and is in the business of restoring your joy, your confidence, your hope, and your salvation.

 

October 12 -- "My Times are in His Hands"

 Today’s Reading: Psalm 31

"My Times are in His Hands"

David was sad. His life was spent with grief, and his years with sighing. His sorrow had sapped his strength. Cruel enemies pursued him with malicious intentions, even seeking his life. At this sad and grief-filled time in his life, David turned to the best possible resource available to him – his trust in God. He had no other refuge but that which he found by faith in the Lord his God.

Having taken to trusting in God, David makes a wonderful claim – “my times are in Your hand.” By these words, David was acknowledging God’s divine providence, protection, provision, and guidance.  This to him was a most cheering fact: he had no fear as to his circumstances, since all things were in the divine hand of his loving Heavenly Father.

The great truth is this – all that concerns you as a follower of Christ is in the hands of the Almighty God. Your “times” may change and shift; but they change only in accordance with God’s unchanging love, and they shift only according to the purpose Him with whom is “no variableness nor shadow of a turning” (James 1:17).  Your times, that is to say, your ups and your downs, your health and your sickness, your poverty and your wealth, your joy and your grief – all those are in the hand of the Lord, who arranges and appoints according to his holy will the length of your days, and the darkness of your nights. Storms and calms will vary with the seasons of divine appointment. Sometimes He calms the storm, sometimes He calms you during the storm.  It is all in His gracious, kind, and loving hands.  Whether times are refreshing or gloomy remains with Him who is Lord both of time and of eternity.  We, like David, should rejoice in this eternal truth!

The ultimate results of His work of grace upon us, and of His transformation of us in this life, are in the highest hand. We are not in our own hands, nor in the hands of “the fates”; but we are under the skillful operation of the hands of our Maker, who makes nothing in vain. The end of our life is not decided by the some random “fate” or by accident; but by the hand of love. We shall not die before our time, neither shall we be forgotten and left upon this earth too long.

It is important to note that David's times were in God's hand because that’s where he had placed them. He had by faith intentionally committed all to God. Observe carefully verse 5 of this Psalm: "Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.” We, too, as followers of Christ, must be intentional about our trust in the Lord.  We, like David, must commit our spirit to Him and trust that the entirety of our lives are in His loving and gracious hands!

October 11 -- "Vaccinated Against Fear"

Today’s Reading: Psalms 7 & 27 

"Vaccinated Against Fear"

We live in difficult times. People are traumatized. There is much fear and anxiety permeating our world. Fear is an instrument of the devil. Satan is the purveyor of fear and is doing a masterful job of infecting humanity with a “virus of fear.”  Using communication vessels such as TV news, radio, social media platforms, politicians, and governments, Satan has done a expert job of placing the fear and dread of sickness and death and war and terrorism and financial uncertainties into the hearts and minds of billions of people around the world. This unprocessed fear cuts us off from our full aliveness and spirit, and it separates us from others. So, how do we, as followers of Christ, cope with such fear?  How do we keep our lives from being overcome by this satanic fear?

David was also facing fear. His life was in danger on a daily basis as he was hunted and hounded by king Saul who was certainly out to kill him. If he did not properly handle his fear, he could have easily been overcome and turned into a cowering scaredy-cat. But he kept his life from being overcome by the darkness of fear by “inoculating” himself with a spiritual “vaccine” of sorts. He insulated himself from fear by applying three truths of God to his life.  David’s threefold inoculation from fear is described for us here in Psalm 27:1 – The Lord is my LIGHT. The Lord is my SALVATION. The Lord is my STRONGHOLD.  If we are to cope with the darkness of fear all around us, we too must vaccinate ourselves with these same three truths.

THE LORD IS MY LIGHT. The Apostle John wrote, “This is the message we have heard from Him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.”  (1 John 1:5) When you look to Him (rather than listening to the vessels of Satan), your heart is enlightened with His truth. He becomes your counselor, comforter, companion, and deliverer in all your distresses. The way of God is bright.  As our light, he shows us the way in which we must walk, and gives us comfort in walking therein. Inoculate yourself from the darkness of fear with the light of God and His word.

THE LORD IS MY SALVATION. When all is said and done, your future is held in the masterful hands of your Creator. As a follower of Christ, there is no doubt about the ultimate end of your life.  When He is finished with you in this world (and not a moment sooner), you are promised eternal salvation in His glorious kingdom.  Knowing this truth keeps your heart wrapped in confidence and joy.  Inoculate yourself from fear with the joy of God’s salvation.

THE LORD IS MY STRONGHOLD.  Psalm 18:2 says, “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”  As Christians, we are uniquely blessed with protection from all of the difficulties and fears that this life tries to bring upon us.  Run to Him.  He is your hiding place.  Inoculate yourself from fear by finding your strength in the safe hands of your God! 

With David the Psalmist, we should confidently say, “of whom (or what) shall I be afraid?”

October 10 -- "Conviction Over Opportunity"

Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 24

"Conviction Over Opportunity"

David had more than one opportunity to launch a surprise attack on Saul and put an end to his own torture of being hunted and hounded by the king. But he did not act on those opportunities.  Instead, he chose to respect God’s chosen leader and keep him alive even though it meant his own torment and discomfort would continue.  Some would say that whenever God opens a door of opportunity, we must go through it and take hold of the situation that has presented itself.  But is that always true? Actually, no.  There are times when personal character matters more than seizing opportunity.  In this case, David had a personal conviction from God about laying a hand on God’s chosen leader. David’s logic, though it seemed illogical to some, was simply that one should never attack the Lord’s anointed – even though the opportunity to do so presented itself. 

What application does this have to Christians today? Who is, or are, the Lord’s anointed who should not be attacked? Does this mean we should never challenge or attack a Christian leader or Pastor? That we must recognize him as God’s anointed and not “lay a hand” on him?  In the New Testament, congregations are not led by kings or prophets. They are led by “pastors,” a word that means servant-shepherds. Yes, I know in many circles the pastor and his wife are treated like royalty. Some even refer to the pastor’s wife as first lady.  But this verse was never intended to place people above others or remove them from accountability for their actions. While we must hold our leaders accountable for issues to do with false doctrine, sin, and stewardship failures, we must be very careful not to “attack” or “oppose” or “dispute with” our pastor-shepherd for issues that are not critical or vital to the life of the church. He is God’s under-shepherd and has been chosen by God for his service to the church.  As such, we must be careful to support and defend him privately and publicly.

More importantly for us, we need to see the underlying principle here – Conviction Trumps Opportunity!  We must never yield to an apparent opportunity when doing so will compromise our convictions.  David chose not to lift a finger against Saul because in his heart he knew God would not be pleased.  In the same way, we must be careful not to go through “an open door” just because it is there.  We must seek God’s will and search our own hearts.  If seizing the opportunity compromises our convictions, we must decline.  Perhaps you’re competing for a promotion at work, but you know another employee is more deserving than you.  Be careful that you don’t “attack” that other employee just to better your situation.  Or, maybe you’ve just been in a minor traffic collision that was really your fault, but when the police report is made, you claim the other person was at fault just so you can protect your driving record or insurance premiums. 

Remember – conviction always trumps opportunity.  Put God’s principles first, then if a door opens that doesn’t require compromise of your convictions, you can be confident in going through that door.

October 9 -- "What Are You Seeking?"

Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 23 & Psalm 57 

"What Are You Seeking?"

Saul was a "seeker." Saul was seeking David.  He was determined to find David and execute him so he would no longer be a threat to his kingdom and dynasty. 

When Saul would hear a report about David’s whereabouts, he would immediately pursue him in that location. According to Saul’s son Jonathan, Saul was fully aware that God had chosen David to be the new king.  In verse 17, Jonathan says to David, “You [David] shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Saul my father also knows this.” Despite knowing in his heart that God had given the kingdom over to David, Saul still sought him.  Saul was a “seeker” all right, but he wasn’t seeking after the right thing(s).  He was seeking his own benefit and acclaim.

David, also, was a “seeker.” But he wasn’t seeking his own advancement or comfort.  He was a seeker after God. And, herein is the essential principle that sustained David and protected him from Saul’s relentless pursuit.  David was a man “after God’s own heart.”  He loved the Lord and sought to draw close to him continually.  We are told about four times in today’s chapter that David repeatedly “inquired of the LORD.” While Saul was seeking David, David was seeking God.  As a result, David always remained one step ahead of his pursuer.

In Psalm 57, David credited the LORD with answering his prayers and saving him from Saul’s pursuit. “I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me. He will send from heaven and save me; he will put to shame him who tramples on me.” (Psalm 57:2-3)

David knew that God had a purpose for his life. He knew that God would see to it that this purpose was fulfilled. So, David continually inquired of the Lord and committed his safekeeping to “God Most High.”

God also has a purpose for your life.  But your enemy (the devil) is seeking to thwart God’s purpose and drive you off course from God’s plan.  This is why it is so important to seek the LORD regularly and continually.  If you remain committed to seeking the LORD along life’s path, He will see to it that you are always one step ahead of your pursuer.  He will “put to shame him who tramples on” you.

Don’t turn aside to the right or the left. Be a “seeker” of God. Stay on His divine path. Inquire regularly and sincerely of Him. He has never lost one of His followers, and He will not lose you. No one can snatch you out of His hand. (John 10:29)

October 8 -- "Three D's: Distress, Debt, Discontent"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 22

"Three D's: Distress, Debt, Discontent"

Today, many people are facing distress, financial debt, and a sense of discontentment. Just as 1 Samuel 22:2 offers guidance and hope to those in similar circumstances in ancient times, this passage can provide encouragement and direction to those facing these challenges today. Just as David assimilated this “motley crew” into his team and turned them into successful warriors, our God is seeking those discontented souls among us so He can turn them into warriors for His kingdom.

Distress: In our modern world, distress can take various forms, such as personal crises, health issues, or emotional struggles. The cave of Adullam represents a place of refuge for those in distress today. Just as David turned to God for refuge, we can do the same. Seek solace in prayer and meditation on God's Word. Find a local church or a community of believers who can provide emotional support and prayer during difficult times. Remember that God is always near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), and He can bring comfort and peace in the midst of distress.

Financial Debt: Financial debt is a common challenge in today's society. The debt can weigh heavily on individuals and families, causing stress and anxiety. Like those who joined David in his time of distress, we should seek practical solutions to address our financial challenges. This may include creating a budget, seeking financial counseling, or exploring debt consolidation options. Above all, trust God with your financial situation. Pray for wisdom and provision, and be diligent in managing your resources. God can open doors and provide opportunities to alleviate your debt burden.

Discontentment: “Bitterness of soul” often arises from comparing our lives to others or feeling unfulfilled in our current circumstances. The story of David and the cave of Adullam reminds us that God can transform our discontentment into purpose. Seek God's guidance and direction for your life. Ask Him to reveal His plan and purpose for you and be open to His leading. Sometimes, discontentment can be a signal that God is calling you to a new path or a deeper relationship with Him. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude for what you have, and trust that God can use your discontentment as a catalyst for positive change.

Just as David provided hope and guidance to those in distress, debt, and discontentment, our Lord offers a timeless message of encouragement and direction for individuals facing similar challenges today. Turn to God for refuge, seek practical solutions, and trust that God can transform your circumstances and lead you to a place of purpose and contentment.

October 7 -- "Humanity Above Legality"

Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 21 

"Humanity Above Legality"

Under the Law of Moses, the "table of shewbread" (KJV), was an important piece of furniture inside the Holy Place of the Tabernacle. It was situated on the north side of the Holy Place, a private chamber where only priests were allowed to enter and perform daily rituals of worship as representatives for the people.

On top of the table, the priests placed the twelve loaves of shewbread, also called “the bread of the Presence” or "Holy bread." The twelve loaves stood for the twelve tribes of Israel.  The loaves were a symbolic acknowledgment that God was the resource for Israel’s life and nourishment (i.e. “The Bread of Life”) and also served as Israel’s act of thanksgiving to God.  The loaves of bread were changed every Sabbath, and the priests ate that which had been removed.  It was forbidden under the Law for anyone but the priests to eat the shewbread.

Then one day, David and his small band of supporters were on the run from king Saul.  And they ran out of food. So. David went to Ahimelech the priest and requested some food.  And the priest answered David, “I have no common bread on hand, but there is the ‘holy bread.’”  The priest then gave them the holy bread. It was the only bread he had, which had been removed from God’s presence and replaced by fresh bread at the same time.

Although this was technically a violation of the Law, the priest recognized that it was the right thing to do. The principle that this draws our attention to about the Law is that in cases of human necessity (such as in the case of David), acts of mercy are preferred to ritual services.  Human need takes precedence over legal technicalities.

Jesus would later refer back to this incident when His disciples were accused of doing that “which is not lawful” by picking wheat grain on the sabbath.  Jesus there reminded all of us that religion should never get in the way of our care and compassion for our fellow human beings.  Jesus summed up his lesson that day by saying, “I desire mercy not sacrifice” (Matthew 12:7), thus placing acts of mercy and grace above religious and ritual acts.

If your religion is so structured that you cannot feel the pain and need of others, it is time to let the Holy Spirit renew grace in your heart. God desires mercy, and mercy requires acts of compassion. Mercy requires that we see the humanity of others, and also recognize our own humanity. Mercy sees the true need and seeks restoration. And in order to give mercy, it must flow of our own awareness of how we have received mercy so abundantly.