September 12

September 12

Off to the hospital this morning to have the cardiologist stop and restart my heart, hoping to get rid of my arrhythmia. Today, an entry from Edified.
 
“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.”
Psalm 34:17
 
The description of you, Lord God, in Psalm 34:18-22 reveals to us your great heart, your loving kindness, your faithful follow-through and your total trustworthiness—all reasons for worship, praise and exaltation.
 
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” You know those who are in such situations; you don’t draw back from them, but in compassion come close, tenderly drawing them to yourself, flooding them with forgiveness, healing and grace. You, Lord Jesus, are good!
 
“A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all;” Your Word, Lord, is realistic: this world is full of troubles, flowing out of the well of sin, permeating all aspects of this twisted and broken creation. But you are there, at work in each trouble, bringing the deliverance that is right and positive, constructive and helpful.
 
“…he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.” What a beautiful reference to your own suffering, Lord Jesus—you, too, had many troubles in your time on earth; you were willing to suffer them, and you were delivered from them–just as you do for us. No one can ever say to you, “But you don’t understand!”
 
“Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned.” The outcome of their lives is certain. Their own decisions will bring about their own end. You are just, O Lord, you are wise in your statement, “I gave them over to the desires of their hearts.”
 
“The LORD redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.” We say the word “redeemed” so easily, but it cost you so much. The result of your great willingness to purchase your enemies is that no one who takes refuge in you will be condemned. You know all, you see all, you love all, you save all who are willing to come to you. You alone are worthy of our love, our worship, our obedience, our praise.
 
Glory be to you, Lord Jesus. You fill my vision, you color my world, you overrule every event, you guide in strength, you protect in power. You are unwavering in purpose, you exude faithfulness, you follow through forever. You are perfect, pristine, powerful, passionate, priestly and permanent. You are worthy of worship for your marvelous makeup, your wonderful Word, your awesome acts, your perfect person.
 
Prayer: “May you be exalted in my life today, O Great and Mighty Lord. Amen”