Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

I opened my Bible to study for today’s writings and noticed several verses I’ve previously underlined in this chapter. I love it when that happens because it’s a sweet reminder of lessons I’ve learned before. Fear and anxiety are two things I’ve dealt with pretty regularly in my life, for many different reasons in many different seasons. The book of Psalms in general is a go-to when I’m dealing with any type of heavy emotions or big questions for God. 

The two sections I have underlined are verses 3-4 and verses 9b-11: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose Word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?” “This I know, that God is for me. In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?” 

I don’t think this passage needs much explanation from me. It’s just a simple reminder of a truth that can be hard for us to believe: God is for us, your worst enemy here on earth can ultimately do nothing, and we have nothing and no one to fear. If David, who had enemies trying to kill him regularly, could say that he had nothing to fear, even more so can I believe that truth.  

Verse 8 is a sweet reminder that God sees us, hears us, and remembers all of our hurts. He cares for us. So whatever enemy is attacking you today, talk to God about it. Remind yourself that you trust in His word, meditate on the truths you’ve read, and praise His name. I am confident that your enemy will shrink in size the moment you choose to focus on God instead.  

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Use the S.O.A.P. Method to study God’s Word.
• SCRIPTURE: What stands out to you in today’s passage?
• OBSERVATION: What is this text saying? What is the context? How does it fit with the verses before and after it? Are there any commands, instructions, or promises? 
• APPLICATION: How can you apply this verse to your life? What does this mean today? What is God saying to you? 
• PRAYER: Respond to the passage in prayer. Ask God to help you apply this truth to your life and spend some time listening to what He may be telling you.
  

The Way of Jesus: 7 Marks of Discipleship

As we begin a new series, we encourage you to lean into the 7 Marks of Discipleship each week. The 7 Marks of Discipleship provide a simple tool to help us identify areas where we are thriving in our calling and where we can grow. Check here each week for a new 7 Marks Challenge that will encourage you to follow Jesus closer every day.