Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Today’s Scripture Reading  |  Psalm 145:8–14           

The Lord is gracious and merciful,
   slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
The Lord is good to all,
   and his compassion is over all that he has made.

All your works shall give thanks to you, O Lord,
    and all your faithful shall bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom,
   and tell of your power,
to make known to all people your mighty deeds,
   and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
   and your dominion endures throughout all generations.

The Lord is faithful in all his words,
   and gracious in all his deeds.
The Lord upholds all who are falling,
   and raises up all who are bowed down. (NRSV)

Reflection
“The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.” This is a powerful reminder that when we’re struggling, when we fail, when we’re beaten down by life, our Lord is with us and sustains us. Not only does God lift us up, God stays with us. God may cradle us while we heal. God may hold our hand as we walk to help us gain our footing. God knows what we need before we even ask. And ’God’s always watching over us on our journey through life.

We are so blessed to have that kind of love and support available to us. Yet how often do we act as if we don’t need it? How often do we forgo asking our Lord for help because if we could just be a little stronger or try a little harder, we could do it on our own? There is so much pressure in American society to be strong—physically, mentally, and emotionally. We’re ashamed to share struggles with addiction, eating disorders, or depression, even with families and close friends. So often instead of embracing God’s love and accepting God’s offer to lift us up, we push God away because we want to do it ourselves.

Prayer
God, my strength and my sustainer, thank you for giving me permission to be vulnerable. Thank you for lifting me up when I am being crushed under the pain of a broken dream or a broken heart. Take away my stubbornness and pride so I can get out of my own way and fully appreciate your love for me. Amen.

Written by Nicole Spirgen, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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