Day 18 Advent Devotional | December 21st
Psalm 94:17-19
If the LORD had not been my help, My soul would soon have dwelt in the abode of silence. If I should say, “My foot has slipped,” Your lovingkindness, O LORD, will hold me up. When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul.
What a priceless yet delicate gift is life! Beginning from the instant of conception, it is supplied moment by moment from the gracious hand of our heavenly father. While we may not rule a nation or face physical harm from those around us, as the psalmist did, we must admit that we, too, are often walking the fine line between life and death. If we stop to think about the speed of our travel, the risks faced in our jobs, global pandemics, or even the silent working of rogue cells in our own bodies, the truth is that life is fragile and often the difference between life and death is measured by milliseconds or millimeters. It is within that space that we find the precision work of our Heavenly Father. Who can provide protection not only for the physical body but also the soul of a man? There is none except the Lord.
Why does it seem that we must find ourselves in a moment of desperation before we cry out for help? Why is it that when there is an obstacle in our life that does not seem to have any apparent path over, around, or through we desperately attempt to move it ourselves? Why, when our emotions have compromised our ability to think or reason clearly, do we continue to lean on our own understanding to resolve our issues? Why is it that we wait until we are in the depths of despair to finally cry out to the Lord for help?
The fear of the unknown twists knots in our stomachs, steals our sleep, and robs us of our joy. It is in these moments that we find relief by entrusting the unknown to the one who knows all and is working all those unknowns together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Let his comforting presence restore your joy when you are filled with concerns.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you so much for life. Thank you for the Son that was given to live a sinless life when we could not, die the death that we deserved, and rise victorious over the grave to give us the hope of eternal life. May you help us to value our lives as the precious gift that it is and remember that you are the source of life. Help us to remember that you are always near and prepared to help and we should not delay in crying out to you. We love you Lord, help us to live a life of thankfulness to you. Amen.