Acts 21
Psalm 43
Some thoughts from Psalm 43.
“Send out your light and truth…” (verse 3)
As we meditate on God and what He says in His word, we can find an inner stability in relationship with God who is unchanging. The living Christ is our light when we feel like we are walking in the dark (John 8:12). When the Spirit of truth reveals Jesus’ accomplishments on our behalf, through His word, it strengthens us within.
“For you are the God in whom I take refuge” (verse 2)
When life sometimes overwhelms us and we struggle to cope we can learn from the psalmist. He says, “Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling…” The truth of God’s word and His promises, lead us to seek and find the reality of the living God with faith and hope even when our souls are ‘cast down’ (verse 5)
“Why do I go about mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” (verse 2)
In this world we do have a spiritual enemy that takes advantage of our weaknesses and Peter says, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) God’s people can resist the devil because Jesus has defeated him. (James 4:8 & 1 John 3:8)
“Oh God, My God…” (verse 4)
This is a cry from the heart for those who feel far from God and even forsaken by God, but know that they are not. God in Christ will never leave us. (Matthew 28:20)
“Then I will go to the altar of God, to God my exceeding joy…” (verse 4)
God gives us grace to be bold in coming to Him through faith in Christ and to see Him as our ‘exceeding Joy’. (Hebrews 4:16)
“Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.” (verse 5)
Do you ever preach encouragement to yourself like this knowing that that God’s word is reality and not your emotions? It’s a good habit to get into. Some call it a PMA: Positive Mental Attitude. Because of Christ’s love and work it actually works. Without Him it’s just wishful thinking.