Daily Encouragement | A scripture-based, 60-second, challenge toward fidelity in living-out the call to Christian discipleship! | Page 1044

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“Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” (Psalm 145:3-4, NIV)

Most of what we know of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and power has been commended to us from those who have gone before us; whether from persons noted in the Bible, or from relatives and friends personally known to us.

As disciples of Jesus, we have the privilege and the opportunity to pass along word of God’s “mighty acts” to other generations.

What have you seen God do — either for yourself, or for others?

Based on your personal experience, are you telling the story of His love toward you? Does your life, and your lifestyle, commend Him to those in other generations? – Luther

Tagged bearing witness, the book of Psalms

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“Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.” (Psalm 84:10, NIV)

Today’s scripture reflects the ambition of every faithful follower of Jesus: Preferring a single day in God’s presence to years elsewhere; preferring the most humble of stations in God’s service to any position of privilege or ease in the places where God’s will is despised.

These choices are not abstract, nor are they theoretical. Each day, we have the opportunity to enter the courts of God through bible reading, prayer, meditation on God’s word, acts of charity, worship, and reflection; but do we? Do we, instead, choose “elsewhere”? – Luther

Tagged fellowship with God, God's presence, the book of Psalms

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“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. Lord Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you.” (Psalm 84:11-12, NIV)

Imagine life before the advent of electricity: The activities of everyday living revolved around the hours of daylight. Nighttime activities were severely limited because lamp oil and candles were cumbersome, and expensive alternatives.

Perhaps we grasp the value of a shield a bit easier, if only because our cars have “windshields” that not only shield us from being buffeted by the wind as we zip along the streets and highways; but from bugs, rocks, and rainwater. A windshield is a “go/no-go item” for most motorists: If it is in place, you go; if not, you choose to ride with a friend.

The psalmist reminds us that the Lord God is both a sun and shield. Abide in God at all costs, and you will never dwell in darkness. Trust in Him at all times, and He will be your shield from perils both seen and unseen. – Luther

Tagged God protection, God's provision, the book of Psalms