Holston Daily Devotional January 24, 2021

Focus Scripture

Psalm 62:5-12 CEB

Oh, I[a] must find rest in God only,
    because my hope comes from him!
6 Only God is my rock and my salvation—
    my stronghold!—I will not be shaken.
7 My deliverance and glory depend on God.
    God is my strong rock.
    My refuge is in God.
8 All you people: Trust in him at all times!
    Pour out your hearts before him!
    God is our refuge! Selah

9 Human beings are nothing but a breath.
    Human beings are nothing but lies.
    They don’t even register on a scale;
    taken all together they are lighter than a breath!
10 Don’t trust in violence;
    don’t set false hopes in robbery.
When wealth bears fruit,
    don’t set your heart on it.
11 God has spoken one thing—
    make it two things—
    that I myself have heard:
    that strength belongs to God,
12     and faithful love comes from you, my Lord—
    and that you will repay
    everyone according to their deeds.

Devotion

In his book, Is There Life After Stress?, James Moore tells of a sign that stood on a vacant lot in Atlanta for many years. The sign said, “Future Home of Avondale Christian Church—God Willing!” After many months, someone came along and wrote on the sign, “God is willing! Are you?”

There is indeed great comfort in the words of the Psalmist here in the 62nd Psalm.

“My deliverance and glory depend on God.”

“God is my strong rock.”

“God is our refuge!”

These are assurances we all need. These are promises in which we can find hope – especially in this very difficult time. But this assurance also comes with a clarion call – “Trust in him at all times!” Where besides God might we have put our trust in the last twelve months? Did we find deliverance there? Refuge? God is willing – are we?

It seems so cliché, too simple almost, but it can make all the difference for all of us, especially when the going gets tough. “Trust in [God] at all times! Pour out your hearts before him!”

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for your presence. Thank you for being a rock in my life. Thank you for providing refuge in times of trouble. Help me to put my trust in you today and everyday. Amen.