Today’s Reading, Psalms 73, 77, 78
Focal Scripture: Psalms 77:2 “I sought the Lord in my day of trouble. My hands were continually lifted up all night long; I refused to be comforted.”
I think I have all of the answers entirely too much in my daily life. Even when I am in trouble, I believe I am smart enough to think my way out of any situation. Sometimes that confidence is good, however, most of the time, it puts me at a disadvantage with the Lord. Why? Because when things go sideways I look to myself to fix the problem instead of the Lord. This means I am trying to be self reliant and that is unbiblical.
In today’s reading we find simple rules that can help us seek the Lord when we are in trouble. First, when trouble comes we need to seek out the Lord before we seek out anyone else. This means that we have to change our thinking. It also means that we have to be honest and transparent when trouble comes our way. Second, we must be in a posture of surrender. The writer here says that his hands were raised all night long. This teaches that surrender is important when troubles enter our life. When we can’t be comforted by the world, we need to learn to be comforted by the Lord.
So what about you? Who do you seek when trouble comes into your life? Most people pick friends to confide in and get advice. Other people go to counselors and pour out their concerns. Going to people is not a bad practice, it just can’t be the main practice. Because when it is, we place God on the back burner. That often leads to a disconnect with God.
I challenge you today to approach the Lord with lifted up hands. Surrender your life, will, wants and desires, to the only person who can truly understand you on a very deep and personal level. The Lord wants to know you and he wants you to trust him with all of your troubles.
Are you willing to trust the Lord with your troubles? Today is the day to pour out your heart to God. Follow the example of David and be transparent with Christ.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading 1 Chronicles 6
