Read Psalms 10:1–18 and 33:1–22
You’ve heard the clichéd descriptions of life’s pain: “I’m so low I have to look up to see bottom,” “With friends like that, who needs enemies,” “If it weren’t for bad luck, I’d have no luck at all.”
In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name (Psalm 33:21).
God’s Word doesn’t pull any punches or need any clichés when it describes how difficult life can be. Again and again, the Bible reminds us to look to God rather than to our circumstances. The more clearly God remains in focus, the more clearly we can keep everything else in proper perspective.
This approach to life doesn’t mean we deny the reality of our struggles and sorrows. Bereavement is real. Sickness is real. Painful relationships are real. Financial hardship is real. However, we must remember that God’s presence and power are an overriding reality. In God, our hearts can rejoice even when every external situation is painful. When we remember that His holiness is unblemished and that He puts His holy name behind every promise in His Word, we can find ample reason to trust Him.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY:
Real joy is never built on present circumstances, but on our eternal God.
©by Gospel Publishing House, 1445 N Boonville Ave., Springfield, Missouri 65802