Tag Archives: trusting in God

August 29
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“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”  (I Corinthians 10:13, NIV)

All temptations are short-cuts.

There are moral short-cuts, such as when we are tempted to take something — anything — that doesn’t belong to us; whether it be tangible (money) or intangible (recognition); and effectively by-pass the additional time, effort, or sacrifice required to acquire these things legitimately. 

There are emotional short-cuts, such as when we by-pass the opportunity to share the sorrow or grief of another person because doing so is inconvenient or difficult.

Today’s scripture reminds us of two things: (1) Our heavenly Father will never allow us to be in a situation where evil or sin is our only choice; and (2) In the times when temptation seems to envelop us, our heavenly Father has provided an escape route. Look for it. Don’t move until you find it. Take it.

The resistance of temptations of all kinds may be the long way home, but it is the way home.  – Luther

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August 21
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“Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will take a stand for me against evildoers? Unless the Lord had given me help, I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death. When I said, ‘My foot is slipping,’ your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” (Psalm 94:16-19, NIV)

Reflecting on the role of power and influence in our world, comedian Woody Allen said: “The race may not go to the swift, or victory to the strong, but that’s how you bet.” 

Today’s reading, however, reminds us that although the wicked co-exist with the righteous — and often have the stronger hand — God is the champion of the righteous.

Were it not for the Lord God’s help, we would be dead. When we slip or stumble, God’s unfailing love supports us. When we are severely anxious,  God’s consolation fills our dreadful heart with joy.  

The odds-makers and bettors will always prefer the swiftest and the strongest. The Lord God backs the slow and the weak, when they put their faith in Him.  – Luther

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August 16
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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

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