WHAT GOD WANTS

"The idea is that each of us has a responsibility before God to care for himself as God's person. Not just physically, but spiritually, emotionally, relationally, morally, intellectually, & so forth . . . If you work to meet the legitimate needs of your family, then you are fulfilling something important that God wants done in the world." Doug Sherman & William Hendricks, "Men's Devotional Bible"

GOD WILL RESCUE, DEFEND, FORGIVE

Let them be put to shame & disappointed altogether who rejoice in my calamity! Let them be clothed with shame & dishonor who magnify themselves against me! Let those who delight in my righteousness shout for joy & be glad & say evermore, 'Great is the Lord, who delights in the welfare of His servant!' Then my tongue shall tell of Your righteousness & of Your praise all the day long." (Ps. 35:26-28)

"David appeals to God Almighty as divine warrior & righteous judge. He prays that God will come to His defense & rescue him from those who were once close friends but who now accuse, slander, & condemn him. The Lord forbids that we accuse an innocent person (8th Commandment), which would cause him or her to be wrongly punished in body, property, or reputation (see Prov. 22:1). He bids us to err on the side of the Gospel in the case of our neighbor, unless guilt is clear (see Matt. 18:15-18). As we endeavor to treat our neighbors fairly & with mercy, our merciful Lord justifies us according to His righteousness." Rev. Peter Jurchen, "Engaging the Psalms:  A Guide for Reflection & Prayer"

CONTENTMENT

"Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am." (Phil. 4:11)

"Our world promotes dissatisfaction with our lives. We are constantly bombarded with newer & better things that will make our lies more complete if only we could obtain them! If we listen to the world, we will always be comparing the lifestyles & possessions of others with our own, & we will always be dissatisfied. If our contentment comes from possessions, activities, or other people, these can be altered or removed. If our contentment comes from our relationship with Christ, there is absolutely nothing that can take that away." Henry & Richard Blakaby, "Experiencing God Day-By-Day"

TODAY'S PRAYER

"O heavenly Father, we rely on Your grace & protection in the midst of sin & the wicked works of those who test our faith. Your Word is truth. Do not allow courage to build in the hearts of our enemies, who despise Your Word & Your Son. Do not let them proudly boast, 'Where is your God?' Answer, we pray, those who oppress Your Holy Word. Amen." Engaging the Psalms