Prayer: Father, You are my strength, my confidence. Amen.
Reading: Psalm 73 key: vs. 2-5
2 But as for me, my feet almost slipped.
My steps nearly slid out from under me.
3 For I envied the arrogant,
when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
4 For there are no pains at their death,
their body is healthy.
5 They have none of humanity’s trouble,
nor are they plagued like others.
Attention: I recall a pastor with whom I worked in the late seventies who used to sing the song which the great Louis Armstrong sang titled, “Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen; nobody knows but Jesus” (see link below).
If we are not careful, we can fall into the trap which the psalmist expressed in today’s psalm. He says, “for I envied the arrogant, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked” for “they have none of humanity’s trouble, nor are they plagued like others.”
He is crying “foul” this is not fair. He characterizes the wicked as those who “scoff and wickedly plan evil,” “who set their mouth against heaven.” Finally, he was able to make sense of it all when he “entered the Sanctuary of God and perceived their end.”
Be assured that God is not mocked (Galatians 6:7). Paul tells us that “whatever a man sows, that he also shall reap.” They will not get away with mocking God. Take heart in this timeless principle as this is what is occurring in our world today. Instead, I encourage you to embrace the conclusion of the psalmist, “But for me, it is good to be near God.” Draw near to God and He promises to draw near to you.
Action: I will no longer be deceived by the appearance of evil having a smooth ride, for I know their end. I will draw near to God, in my heart, mind, and soul, today.
Yield: I am yielded when I perceive the world through the eyes of God and Scripture.
Engaged: I am engaged with God when I choose to draw near to Him.
Relationship: Draw me near to You, O Lord.
Prayer: Father, I am safest when I stay near to You. Draw me nearer to You. Amen.
Memory Verse: Psalm 73:25-26
25 Whom have I in heaven but You?
On earth there is none I desire besides You.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.
Music Video:
Nobody Knows de Trouble I’ve Seen (Negro Spiritual)
I Am Thine, O Lord with Lyrics
Remember, “Abide in Jesus, today!”