Good Morning!
First snow, but no worries on this home front! I started my wood stove yesterday and have more than enough split, dried wood for the winter. Nice and toasty!
I would like to share one of my favorite psalms today:
Psalm 121 A song of Ascents
I lift my eyes to the hills, from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot be moved, he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand.
The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in, from this time forth and forever more.
Isn’t that cool? You may recognize the first line from “Praise You In This Storm” by Casting Crowns. While this certainly is a good psalm for times of trouble, I think it is just as suitable for times that are good. After all, isn’t our God worthy of praise in all circumstances?
I also think it wise to remember the times God has carried us through storms, even when things are going well, like they are now for me. I don’t mean to be one of those who are quick to see the cow pie in the spring pasture, but we are not of this world and can expect trouble. Remember, soldiers drill in times of peace so that they are prepared for times of war.
So, my friends, let’s train and strap on our armor. Maybe your corner of the world is already engaged in battle. If so, then these verses will be put to use immediately.
Ephesians 6:10-18 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand firm. Stand, therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.
Who knows what a day may bring? Lastly, let’s not forget the final verses.
19-20 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
I don’t claim to compare myself to Paul, but we are all ambassadors for Jesus. Pray for me that these words I write may reach many, to encourage believers to share their faith and to those who yet may come to believe, the gospel of Jesus.
Father, thank you for your reminders to prepare. Please touch all who read these words today. Let them give pause and reflection to all, that they may thank you and honor you with their entire minds, bodies, and spirits. Let all acknowledge Jesus as Lord of Lords and King of Kings, the title that you gave and that only he is worthy of holding. Amen.
Copyright © 2017 Scott Powers