Psalm 25:16-21 [NIV] | Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. Relieve the troubles of my heart and free me from my anguish. Look on my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins. See how numerous are my enemies and how fiercely they hate me! Guard my life and rescue me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in you. May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you.
There are times in life we feel lost and overwhelmed. The troubles of the world and our sinfulness can weigh heavy upon us. During our storms in life, it can feel as though there is no place to turn, not end in sight. We seek to handle situations in life on our own only to discover greater despair. God can and will use such opportunities to draw us to our knees so that all we can do is look up to him for help. It is in these moments we ask God to turn his eyes upon us and be gracious.
Jesus is bold to tell us, “… in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Jesus promised us peace through our union with him—for he has overcome the world by rising from the grave. The world, Satan’s system that is opposed to God, will give believers terrible trouble and opposition. We cannot deny there is an evil force constantly working against us. It is only through Christ can we be rescued from our afflictions. In Christ, we take our refuge.
Despite challenges we face; Jesus promises to always be with us with outstretch arms. He is ready to relieve our troubles and free us from grief, pain, and sorrow. Like David, we too pray, “May integrity and uprightness protect me,” Having already confessed his sinfulness and being confident in God’s grace, David prays for God’s help that he may have integrity and be upright. A life lived for Christ can help bring hope and comfort in our times of difficulty.
Prayer:
Lord, lead me to the cross when we feel lonely and afflicted. Relieve the troubles of our hearts and free us from our anguish. Help us to live a life worthy of your praise. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
Action Plan:
Today I will turn to the Lord and honestly share my afflictions.
Pastor Rod Lindemann
I Can’t | Jesus Can | Jesus Can Through Me
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