Title: Precious Promises/Topic: God's Goodness

Today’s Reading: Numbers 7; Psalm 23; Acts 27

Scripture: Psalm 23
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

Observation: This is a precious Psalm full of precious promises. Who could want more from life than what David declares that God does for a person who trusts and depends on Him here in these verses? Provision, peace, protection, power and prosperity are all proclaimed to be a part of God's plan for David (and for us). But when I read these words, I remember that David spent years of his life running from Saul, who was trying to kill him, hiding in caves and living far from any comforts of home. How, then, could David pen these words? He saw God's hand of protection and provision even in his darkest times (the valley of the shadow of death). He knew God would bring him through that time. He had faith. He focused on the positive even in the tough situations. He could have focused on the unfairness of the situation when he was having to hide in caves and sleep on the hard ground. Instead, he focused on positive things and as a result he saw God's deliverance in a big way.

Application: This is the example I want to follow in my life. Even when walking through difficult times I want to declare and focus on the goodness of my God. I want to surround myself with people who are positive and faith-filled and avoid those who are toxically negative, even if they are in my own family.

Prayer: Oh Lord, you are good! I declare your goodness to me and the wonderful plans you have for me. Thank you for all of your provisions for me. May I walk in all the fullness you have for me and may I be a witness to others of your manifold blessings.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.