Getting To The Right Destination
PSALM 112:4-5,7 (NIV)
Even in darkness, light dawns for the upright, for those who are generous and compassionate and righteous. Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice.'
(The righteous) will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
Psalm 112 promises good outcomes to those who do not choose the easiest paths.
Every day driving to work I navigate eight roundabouts before I arrive at my current school placement. As a supply teacher, each term I can have a different journey, so I need my car's satnav! One wrong turn, and I might have to drive another 30 min to get back on track. It's particularly critical on roundabouts, where my satnav is vital in choosing the right direction.
This Psalm is like my satnav, indicating the right choices that will lead me to my desired destination. There are so many amazing promises in this Psalms, a reminder of the hope ahead, but we must choose carefully how to lead our lives if we are to experience the promise of comfort when dark days arrive (v.4), or when bad news reaches us (v.7). Trust amidst difficulties is a sign of Christian maturity, that you have absorbed God's promises and are following him closely in the way you live.
Comfort in the presence of God is always available to us. We can ask the Holy Spirit daily to lead us in the right direction, teaching us to trust, even in face of bad news and difficult days and outcomes.
Recently at Gas Street, we heard Ali Herbert preaching from Colossians on how we are called to live life as 'glow in the dark' Christians. Reaching this level of Christian maturity is our greatest call as Jesus' disciples. Seeking Jesus’s direction every day in our decision making, will lead us to be closer intimacy with him so that through him we experience all the comfort and strength we need for the difficulties of life.
Prayer - Dear God thank you for always having a correct path for me to walk. Thank you for the assurance of your love casting away all fear. I choose today to put my trust in you as I want to grow in maturity, listening to your voice even on dark days. Help me to glow in the dark.