Don’t Give Up
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, I’m so very grateful that I can trust in Your loving, faithful care for me each day.
Read PSALM 11:1-7
[1] For the director of music. Of David. In the LORD I take refuge. How then can you say to me: “Flee like a bird to your mountain. [2] For look, the wicked bend their bows; they set their arrows against the strings to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart. [3] When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?” [4] The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD is on his heavenly throne. He observes the sons of men; his eyes examine them. [5] The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked and those who love violence his soul hates. [6] On the wicked he will rain fiery coals and burning sulfur; a scorching wind will be their lot. [7] For the LORD is righteous, he loves justice; upright men will see his face. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What do you learn about the Lord here?The poor man who wrote this psalm was in big trouble. We don’t know what the problem was, but he felt the foundations of his life and culture were being destroyed (3). Some well-meaning friends have urged him to head for the hills (1)! Unusually, this psalm isn’t addressed to God. It is his response to those faint-hearted friends.
In a time of great uncertainty, this is the thing he knows for sure: God is still in control. The twenty-first century is a tough time to be a Christian. But don’t imagine that God has lost his grip. He hasn’t run away and he hasn’t been dethroned (4). God can see what’s going on. God is not distracted or short-sighted. He is watching humanity closely, observing everyone, those who love him and those who don’t (5). God will bring about justice in the end. It’s just not in God’s nature to let wickedness triumph or leave loose ends untied. If we wait patiently, we will see God face to face. Then we will understand the trials we go through now (6,7).
Apply
If you are feeling discouraged or under pressure, “Be strong and brave, and wait for the Lord’s help” (see Psa. 27:14).
Closing prayer
Lord, I thank You that You’re God and Lord of all. May I trust that in even the toughest times.
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