Today’s scripture: Psalm 91 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Tammy Mills):
I often laugh when I see the slogan “No Fear.” I can’t remember a time when my mind wasn’t on the verge of being consumed with fear. Fear I won’t succeed — or fear I will. Fear I won’t get what I want, or fear I will get what I want. Then I get into the fear-of-things-in-the-world fear. I can get lost in my fear for my children’s future or our country’s future, or the future of the human race in general. I expect about now you are starting to really think that I’m paralyzed by fear!
While I may have lots of fears, I generally don’t let them stop me. I am not paralyzed because eight years ago I read this psalm, and while reading it the proverbial “light bulb” went on above my head. Suddenly I knew I was always going to have fear, but I needn’t be afraid.
Each night I could rest my head next to the heart of God, and there I would find strength to move though my fears to do the things I knew I was called to do. This psalm reminds me that, yes, things might be scary, but I will never be alone. The images of God is this psalm brought me much comfort eight years ago, and still do today!
My favorite saying these days is “Courage is prayed over fears.” This Psalm taught me the power of this slogan!
Thought for the day: What images of God in this psalm bring comfort to you? What fears do you need to hand over to the almighty so that you can move on?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.