The Place To Be
(S) Scripture
But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.
Psalm 5:11-12 (NIV)
(O) Observation
The Psalmist describes the righteous and the unrighteous. He concludes with a promise and a word of encouragement to the righteous. They will have God's protection as a shield and they will sing for joy and rejoice.
(A) Application
This is a good reminder to me of the benefits of following Jesus. Many ask, "What difference does God really make in my life?" Here the answer is clear. God protects us and shields us. We are in God's company and we are able to rejoice. Joy is elusive to many because it is a gift of God not some conjured up feeling. It is an experience God brings to the faithful. Yesterday I had the funeral of Eleanor Crittenden, a 100 year old saint, and her family although sad experienced the joy that God gives in knowing that she was with him. People are looking for joy and cannot find it because they are looking in all the wrong places. Joy comes to those whose trust is in Christ and who are living faithfully for Him. God's protection does not mean that we never experience difficult or trying times it means that when they come we have Him walking with us and guiding us. Today I will live for Him. The joy of the Lord truly is my strength from day to day.
(P) Prayer
Lord, Let me experience you protection as a shield in my life to allow me to face each day rejoicing in you. Amen
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