Psalm 38:17-22 [NIV] | 17 For I am about to fall, and my pain is ever with me. 18 I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin. 19 Many have become my enemies without cause; those who hate me without reason are numerous. 20 Those who repay my good with evil lodge accusations against me, though I seek only to do what is good. 21 Lord, do not forsake me; do not be far from me, my God. 22 Come quickly to help me, my Lord and my Savior.
There may be days, weeks, or even months when life feels overwhelming. Like the psalmist, sin in our lives can become a heavy weight to bear causing us great anguish. The world with its evil forces leads us down a path of despair. There are times when God lets us fall to our knees so that the only thing left is to look up and cry out to God.
Our merciful God says, “I will never leave you or forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). As we cry out to God, he brings us to the realization that he is all we need in our lives. As we face difficult challenges, God calls us to him for strength and comfort. Jesus conquered sin, death, and the Devil. There is nothing we need to fear when we place our hope and trust in the One who conquered the grave.
Jesus says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). With these words Jesus tells us to take courage. Despite our struggle, we are not alone. Just as Jesus’ Father did not leave him alone, Jesus does not abandon us to our struggles either. If we remember that the ultimate victory has already been won, we can claim the peace of Christ in the most troublesome times.
Prayer:
“Lord, do not forsake me; do not be far from me, my God. 22 Come quickly to help me, my Lord and my Savior.” Amen.
Action Plan:
I will take courage in Jesus, who promises to never leave or forsake me.
Pastor Rod Lindemann
I Can’t | Jesus Can | Jesus Can Through Me
