Daily Devotionals
Daily Devotional: Psalms 126:1-6
Ps 126:1-6
1 When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion, we were like men who dreamed. 2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them." 3 The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. 4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like streams in the Negev. 5 Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. 6 He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.
Phil 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Can you imagine being held captive, as a prisoner of war? Then, after several years of captivity, imagine the joy of being released and being able to return to your home and your loved ones! Those who sow in tears will reap with song of joy. What seemed to be the darkest time of your life is now filled with joy.
We all were at one time captives of sin. We belonged to the enemy and life was dark and our hearts were filled with despair. But in Jesus Christ we are set free from the bondage of sin and all of the misery this produces in us. Because of the love of God and his mercy toward us, we are the recipients of his grace. Paul says that we are saved by faith on our part and by grace on the part of God.
Grace is being saved when we deserve to be put to death, both physically and spiritually. Because God is love, from before the beginning of time, he devised a way of salvation for all of mankind. He predetermined that those who would trust him and his Son would be able to have their sins forgiven. But God knows our hearts and so it must be a genuine trust that is demonstrated by our action. In fact, any faith that does not produce corresponding action is a dead faith that cannot save anyone. By grace we are counted as righteous in Christ.
Heavenly Father, giver of life and all that I see and know in this world. You have blessed me in more ways than I ever imagined or dreamed would be possible. In Jesus Christ I find a meaning and purpose to my life and in him I have joy and I have peace. Thank you for always being near to me and for the assurance this give me. Fill me with your Spirit and help me yield to his working in my life so I will be molded into your image. Give me daily strength to overcome every temptation and help me show your love in all I do and all I say. I pray in Jesus name.
Robert
