Engaging with God 24/7
Opening Prayer
“We praise You, God, we praise You, for your Name is near; people tell of Your wonderful deeds” (Psa. 75:1).
Read PSALM 75
1 We praise you, God,
we praise you, for your Name is near;
people tell of your wonderful deeds.
2 You say, “I choose the appointed time;
it is I who judge with equity.
3 When the earth and all its people quake,
it is I who hold its pillars firm.
4 To the arrogant I say, ‘Boast no more,’
and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horns.
5 Do not lift your horns against heaven;
do not speak so defiantly.’”
6 No one from the east or the west
or from the desert can exalt themselves.
7 It is God who judges:
He brings one down, he exalts another.
8 In the hand of the Lord is a cup
full of foaming wine mixed with spices;
he pours it out, and all the wicked of the earth
drink it down to its very dregs.
9 As for me, I will declare this forever;
I will sing praise to the God of Jacob,
10 who says, “I will cut off the horns of all the wicked,
but the horns of the righteous will be lifted up.”
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
Who or what undermines your sense of peace and security?This psalm encourages us to be honest about our worries and fears, but not without also thanking God for his presence. God’s name (1) is more than an identity: it is synonymous with the manifestation of his character, his power and his presence with his people. And God is near (1). This truth is vital when we feel anxious, afraid or upset. God is present—in this very moment. Is that something you need to remind yourself of and receive as tangible truth?
As for individuals or cultures who arrogantly stand in defiant opposition to God, they have been warned (4,5). God promises judgment, vindication and justice. But while we may long for our problems to be relieved or for those who oppress and persecute to be called to account, God patiently waits for his chosen time (2,7,8). For God longs that all people—including the wicked—would come to know Jesus (2 Pet. 3:7–9).
So let’s shift our attention away from our problems and focus instead on God, by joining the psalmist in thanks and praise (1,9).
Apply
Let the powerful awareness of God’s presence help focus your thoughts and emotions on his promises and character.
Closing prayer
Thank You, God, for all that You have done for me in the past. I praise You for who You still are today.
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