Divine Mercy by Stephen B. Whatley

Today’s Reading
Psalms 13, 28, 86

Pastor Lisa’s Journal
Scripture
Show me a sign of your favor, so that those who hate me may see it and be put to shame, because you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me. – Psalm 86:17

Observation
In this passage, the psalmist is again being pursued by insolent ruffians who have no respect for him or God. The psalmist displays his devotion to God, asking God for mercy (to be spared from judgment or harm) and for favor (to be shown partiality over the godless attackers).

Application
Job 34 reminds us that God shows no partiality based on wealth. Acts 10 reminds us that God shows no partiality based on culture or race. Ephesians 6 reminds us God shows no partiality based on social position. (example is slave and master)

Does God show partiality to the devoted over the godless? If so, how do we refrain from falling into a consumer mindset trap, of only loving God for what we get in return?

Prayer
God, You are my Help and my Comforter.
Even so, help me to love you for you.
You are my Shield and Savior,
Help me to love you for you
You are my Sovereign and Maker
Help me to love you for you
You are my Healer and Hope,
Help me to love you for you.
Keep me far from any mindset which cheapens our relationship.
Remove all that twists or divides.
Draw me to the purity of your heart,
through the grace of Jesus Christ my Lord,
in the transparency of the Holy Spirit, my Companion. Amen

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You are invited to join me on a summer adventure through one of the most beloved books in the Bible, Psalms.  To download the Summer in the Psalms reading plan, click here Psalms Reading Plan

As you read, you are encouraged to use the SOAP Method for keeping a spiritual journal, as taught at New Hope Christian Fellowship in Hawaii. For more information on this simple and powerful way of engaging the Word of God, please click here http://www.lifejournal.cc/ or use the simple instructions provided in the reading plan itself.

I look forward to reading your comments and to all that Jesus will do in you and through you as you seek him this summer. – Lisa <><

PS- For more information on the scripture translation, art and the use of this devotional in other settings, please refer to the copyright information page. http://pastorblog.cumcdebary.org/?page_id=1529