“I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined to me, He also brought me up out of the horrible pit, Out of the miry clay, And set my feet upon a rock, And established my steps.” Psalm 40: 1-2 NKJV
These words are very familiar to most of us. Not just from the bible, but there have been several songs through the years that have used these words. Although, I have to admit that for me, it’s probably the song that comes to mind first when I read these words. As I was singing it in my head though, I realized that there were some extra words at the end of the verse that were not in the song. That part about how He established my steps. I love that. God doesn’t just pull us from the fire or the miry clay as it were, He helps us to continue on with what comes next, whatever that might be. He wants to guide us, probably so we don’t fall into the same mess again. David throughout these Psalms is confessing that he needs that and desires that from God. He knows that life is best when he is living with faith and trust in God’s ways and not his own.
“Blessed is that man who makes the Lord his trust, and does not respect the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.” Psalm 40:4
Jesus confesses this same dependence in John.
“He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me.” John 12:44-45
I am always astounded at how Jesus, who being in very nature God, did not take any of the glory for Himself, but always pointed to God the father. Over and over we see this in the scriptures how He is humble and never wants the credit. He even tells those who He heals to keep it to themselves. How quickly am I though to take credit for things or boast with pride at my accomplishments instead of honoring God who gave me my life and abilities. How quickly do I grow impatient when things don’t go like I think they should, instead of remembering that God is sovereign and in control.
God, help me to submit to Your authority just like Jesus demonstrated. Help me to trust in Your plan and timing for my life. Help me to wait as David did through whatever may come, knowing You are faithful and that Your love never fails. Amen
Allen Tanner (allen4myfamily)
Sixty-six books in a year 