The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy....Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing. Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God. He is the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them—he remains faithful forever. Psalm 111:7, 146:3-6
Day 126 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues my focus on 112 of David's psalms which my study has not already covered or will not cover through other daily devotions as part of a broader study within their historical context. This study of these 112 psalms groups the psalms into five major topical areas, and today I start a new grouping "Psalms Expressing a Variety of Sentiments".
Today's psalms focus on how fearing a loving God is the beginning of understanding, how our only hope of redemption is in God's forgiveness, for prayer for wise use of one's speech, and praise that the God who cares is the God who trusts.
Much of what the world cares about, including for believers, can be considered worldly matters. I am no less guilty of this sin. I mostly worry about my kids - Zach and Dustin - and whether they will be OK. I worry whether I am being the father God wants me to be, and Zach and Dustin need me to be - that I have "started [them] off on the way they should go" (Proverbs 22:6). My hope should not be in my kids but in God - He is faithful and trustworthy and I can bring my cares to Him.
Worry is sinful.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who has provided EVERY ti me - I am not without anything. Yes there are ups and downs and difficulties but You are always there and You always provide. I am not deserving of such a God. I worry far too much! I am thankful Jesus for how You provide and for the many, many second chances, but once again I come to You to seek Your forgiveness. Please forgive me for my sin and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to accept You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
