Imagine how different our lives would be if we would default to scripture when the attacks, disappointments and lies of the enemy come. What if we really believed God’s word? When I read a Psalm (or any scripture) I take a moment and really mull it over. I read it once, then re-read it while soaking it into my heart. I read it as if it’s a reality. I read it as if it is the most important instruction I could receive.
Today is simple…I want to look at this portion of Psalm 34 and then really focus in on what it’s saying. Tomorrow, we will complete the Psalm…separating it into two days so we can slowly bite into the fruit it gives us. Let’s get to it!! Here is the first half of Psalm 34…
I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak His praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are helpless take heart. Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt His name together. I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Those who look to Him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces. In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; He saved me from all my troubles. For the angel of the Lord is a guard; He surrounds and defends all who fear Him. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him! Fear the Lord, you His godly people, for those who fear Him will have all they need. Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the Lord will lack no good thing. Come, my children, and listen to me, and I will teach you to fear the Lord. Does anyone want to live a life that is long and prosperous? Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies! Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. Psalm 34:1-14
Praise Him. Speak out loud, His praises. Boast in God, not ourselves. When we pray, He will answer. He frees us. He makes us radiant with joy…joy is a by-product of a life lived in His presence. All shame is removed. No shadow of shame can fall upon those who look to God. When we are desperate, He saves us. The angel of the Lord guards us.
Taste and see His goodness…taste…as in, fully experience in your life His goodness. See…as in, may your eyes be opened to truly see His goodness everywhere. When you fear Him, you lack nothing.
Guard your mouth. Speak with intentionality, not fool heartedness. Walk away from what you know is evil…and do only good. Seek peace…once it’s found, then remain partnered with it. Choose it. Follow it. Live it.
We must work to maintain peace…don’t overlook that part. We search for peace, then work to maintain it. It must be fought for and defended. Peace is work, but it’s good work.
As you head out into this day, I encourage you to continually come back to this portion of scripture. Are you facing job troubles or financial insecurity? Re-read these verses and say, “Amen”. Come into agreement with God’s word and watch as it transforms your life. Are you feeling pursued by the enemy’s forces? Re-read the above scripture and remember that God watches over your ever move. He longs for you to taste and see His goodness. We can hide in Him. We can run to Him for refuge. He is faithful.
365 Days in the Presence 