Life is messy and crazy at times, but no matter what storm we may be facing we have a protector who walks with us every step of the way. I was reading in the book of Psalm and I stopped in Psalm 119. The entire book is pack full and I would encourage you to set aside some time to read it.
Chapter 119, unpacks a lot and talks a lot about the laws of God. It expands on some aspects mentioned in other chapters as well, but I want to focus in on verses 113 - 130. Instead of just talking about these verses let's read them together.
"I hate those who are not completely loyal to you, but I love your law. You are my defender and protector; I put my hope in your promise. Go away from me, you sinful people. I will obey the commands of my God. Give me strength, as you promised, and I shall live; don't let me be disappointed in my hope!" - Psalm 119:113-116 GNT
He is our defender and protector, when we place our hope in Him it will never return void. I love that it says, I put my hope in your promise. Place your hope in the promises of God and the truth of His unwavering word. When your hope is anchored in Him, you will never be disappointed by your hope. The passage continues,
"Hold me, and I will be safe, and I will always pay attention to your commands. You reject everyone who disobeys your laws; their deceitful schemes are useless. You treat all the wicked like rubbish, and so I love your instructions. Because of you I am afraid; I am filled with fear because of your judgments." - Psalm 119:117-120 GNT
God is our refuge and shelter in times of trouble and in times of peace. It doesn't matter what life throws our way, when He is our hope we don't have to worry, because He will hold us up and keep all of His promises. He is a good God and He will never go back on His promises to His people. We serve and good and faithful God friends! Let's keep reading!
"I have done what is right and good; don't abandon me to my enemies! Promise that you will help your servant; don't let the arrogant oppress me! My eyes are tired from watching for your saving help, for the deliverance you promised. Treat me according to your constant love, and teach me your commands. I am your servant; give me understanding, so that I may know your teachings." - Psalm 119:121-125 GNT
I think we often try to look and find all the times He has kept us safe or all the little moments He has walked with us, even the small still quite moments that often go unnoticed. He is with us through it all even when we don't see it or feel it. I love that we never have to wonder if He loves us, because over and over again He pours out His unending love and mercy on us and He continually shows us just how loved we truly are. So, even when it seems like you're all alone, remember you are never alone and you are loved by the creator. The verse continues,
"Lord, it is time for you to act, because people are disobeying your law. I love your commands more than gold, more than the finest gold. And so I follow all your instructions; I hate all wrong ways. Your teachings are wonderful; I obey them with all my heart. The explanation of your teachings gives light and brings wisdom to the ignorant." - Psalm 119:126-130 GNT
Scripture tells us that God is light, there is no darkness in Him and we as the sons and daughters of God are to walk in the light. Spreading the gospel to all the earth, every tribe and every tongue. Being the salt and light of Christ on earth, it defiantly will not be easy, but let me tell you it will be worth it. In an earlier chapter of Psalms the Psalmist tells us, "Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path". As believers we do not walk in darkness, but in the light of Christ.
Matthew 5 recounts the sermon on the mount and the instructions given by Jesus to the multitudes that had gathered to listen. Let's read some of it together starting at verse 13,
"You are like salt for the whole human race. But if salt loses its saltiness, there is no way to make it salty again. It has become worthless, so it is thrown out and people trample on it. You are like light for the whole world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a bowl; instead it is put on the lampstand, where it gives light for everyone in the house. In the same way your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:13-16 GNT
It can be hard to remember that you are never alone at times, and I know life can defiantly be hard at times. What I can tell you though is that God is a God of peace and justice. He will never go back on His word and His promises will never return void.
One last scripture before I go, "As I learn your righteous judgments,
I will praise you with a pure heart" (Psalm 119:7. GNT).
~ Much love friends,
Alianna