“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Ps.56:3-4)
Lord Jesus, I love this Scripture—certainly because it was one of the first portions of your Word Darlene shared with me early in our marriage; but also, because it has helped me learn how to reason from the riches of your grace. It is an honest affirmation about life—for we do experience fear and we do get hurt. And it is also liberating declaration of who you are. You are greater than our fears and hurts; and alone, worthy of our 100% praise and trust. You are more ultimate than anything we will experience in life. Hallelujah!
This kind of Gospel reasoning can help me in every area and experience of life, such as:
- When I am envious and ungrateful, I will return to Gospel-sanity as quickly as possible, Jesus. For you have enriched me and my life beyond all calculations. Knowing you and your love, life could be easier, but not more substantive.
- When I am too “navel-gazing” and downward thinking, I will get my eyes off myself and fix my gaze on you, Jesus. For you are the author and finisher of my faith—my “righteousness, holiness, and redemption” (1Cor.1:30). Life isn’t about a better version of me; but me becoming more like you, Jesus.
- When I am easily irritated and unrealistic in my expectations, I will repent and remember the Gospel. Who made me the King of anyone and the Lord of circumstances? You have won for me a greater freedom than I am accessing and enjoying. You are my peace, joy, and hope. Jesus, I collapse upon you afresh. Hallelujah and So Very Amen
