Daily Devotion

Thursday, January 22, 2026  

Today's Scripture
Psalm 36

Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in their hearts; there is no fear of God before their eyes.
For they flatter themselves in their own eyes that their iniquity cannot be found out and hated.
The words of their mouths are mischief and deceit; they have ceased to act wisely and do good.
They plot mischief while on their beds; they are set on a way that is not good; they do not reject evil.
Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animals alike, O Lord.
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.
O continue your steadfast love to those who know you, and your salvation to the upright of heart!
Do not let the foot of the arrogant tread on me, or the hand of the wicked drive me away.
There the evildoers lie prostrate; they are thrust down, unable to rise. (NRSV)

This psalm of lament, attributed to David, offers a sober assessment of the human heart. The opening verses point out how easily deceit, pride, and injustice take root when people no longer fear God. The state of things hasn’t changed much in today’s society. The messages of “truth” and “good news” from our leaders, media pundits, and social influencers regularly leave me weary, confused, or alarmed.

Yet as the psalm continues, David lifts his eyes heavenward. He writes that God’s righteousness is steady and unmovable, like mighty mountains. In a world that feels unstable and morally unanchored, David places his hope in the character of God.

The phrase in this psalm that speaks most deeply to me is, “In your light we see light,” because it reminds me that in God’s presence I can find direction, purpose, and peace. God’s light dispels shadows, so I am better able to discern truth from distorted messages.

How comforting to know that you and I are not called to generate light on our own! We are called to live in God’s presence. When we do, our eyes adjust, and we see what truly matters. We remember who reigns. We stand witness to the light that still shines and will not be overcome.

Prayer

God of true light, you are the source of hope and clarity. When my vision is dim and my understanding clouded, draw me closer to you. Help me to see myself, others, and the world not through fear or shadow, but through the radiance of your presence. In your light, let me truly see. Amen.

Written by Sarah Younger, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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