God Is, so We Can!

Daily Reading: Jeremiah 16

Scripture Focus: O Lord, my strength and my stronghold, my refuge in the day of trouble, to you shall the nations come from the ends of the earth. (Jeremiah 16.19)

Devotional Thought: In times of public health concerns and racial tensions, it seems that good news is hard to come by.  Jeremiah was in trying times, too.  Yet, the "weeping prophet" found hope in God.

God is...

·       Our strength.  God is the source of power.  Jeremiah certainly grew weary.  He was fighting an uphill battle.  His nation was in the midst of great moral decay and widespread apathy toward God.  Yet, he was able to gain the strength that he needed to continue his ministry and maintain his victory.  It wasn't easy, but with God he was able to do it.

·       Our stronghold.  God is the place of safety.  Jeremiah was surrounded by skeptics and adversaries. He didn't have a lot of friends, but he was able to turn to God.  Remember, friend, that nothing can get to you without first going through your heavenly Father.  He knows what you ultimately need.  He is able to work all things for your good.  And in the words of the Psalmist, he will not let your foot slip!

·       Our refuge in the day of trouble.  God is the author of hope.  In spite of all the turmoil around Jeremiah, he found peace in God.  Sometimes God calms the storms, and sometimes he calms me in the storm.

We can...

·       Come to him from the ends of the earth.  Jeremiah was witnessing a great falling away.  His beloved nation was on the brink of total destruction.  But, Jeremiah heard an invitation from God that reached the farthest corner of the earth: "Come to me."

No matter who you are or where you are or what you are going through, God is calling you.  Let him be your strength, your stronghold, and your refuge.

Prayer: Lord, in these troubling times, I am so thankful that I can turn to you.  Help me to share your hope and peace and love with all those around me so that others, too, may find hope in you.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 107.39-43

39 When they are diminished and brought low through oppression, evil, and sorrow,

40 he pours contempt on princes and makes them wander in trackless wastes;

41 but he raises up the needy out of affliction and makes their families like flocks.

42 The upright see it and are glad, and all wickedness shuts its mouth.

43 Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.