Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. Psalm 20:7 (ESV)
Dear heavenly Father, the battle for our heart’s trust is relentless, often vicious, and quite deceptive. As this day begins (and continues), we affirm that only you are worthy of our worship, love, and trust; and yet we also name the people, places, and things to which we often default, in our sin, weakness, and foolishness. In David’s day, it was chariots and horses, in our day, the battle for our hearts includes:
Some trust in their goodness and discipline, and niceness; but we trust in the finished work of Jesus and the gift of his perfect righteousness.
Some trust in their spouse’s attention and their children’s affection; but we trust in the steadfast love and great delight our God has for us in Jesus.
Some trust in their stock portfolios, cash margins, and “stuff”; but we trust in the unsearchable riches of Christ and the inviolate treasure kept for us in heaven.
Some trust in their physicality and their sensuality; but in sickness and in health, in our youthfulness and in our aging, we trust in the truly beautiful and all-powerful one—Jesus.
Some trust in being smart, wise, and right; but we trust in Jesus, who is our wisdom from God—that is our righteousness, holiness, and redemption.
Some trust in being in included in special groups, circles, and clubs; but we trust in the gift of our union with Christ, and the ongoing communion we enjoy with the entire Trinity.
Some trust in their vocational productivity and their standing in “the company”; but we trust the One who is making all things new and our standing in his grace.
Some trust in their meds and libation, and their “uppers” and “downers”; but we trust in the One who say, “Come to me all who are weary, and I will give you rest.” Only Jesus can heal and free us.
Father, again we say it: though many people, places, and things incessantly vie for our trust, only you are worthy. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ beautiful and bountiful name.
