PSALM 5:11-12

But you’ll welcome us with open arms when we run for cover to you. Let the party last all night! Stand guard over our celebration. You are famous, God, for welcoming God-seekers, for decking us out in delight. (MSG)

TO PONDER

What’s the first thing you do when you are going through a hard time? Do you complain about it, do you get depressed, or do you party all night?

I recently read a book by Phillip Yancy called ‘Where Is God When It Hurts’ where he explores pain and suffering. In the book, Yancy talks about pain and suffering being blessings from God.

The Apostle Paul talks about ‘rejoicing’ in our suffering in Romans 5:3-5, James reminds us to ‘consider it pure joy’ when we experience tough times (James 1:2). Jesus himself tells his disciples that they will ‘have trouble’ and then reminds them that He has ‘overcome the world’ (John 16:33).

Today’s verses hold the key to facing pain and suffering with ‘delight’, the psalmist leads with running to God for cover, taking refuge in Him and it is there we will rejoice.

PRAYER:  Almighty Father, I praise you for always having my back, when I run to you for refuge I find your joy and am able to rejoice in all circumstance when I remember your promises and have my hope in you.  Amen.

Today's devotion written by Danny Brock, LifeWay Westside