Today’s Reading: Psalm 78:56-72

He chose David His servant and took him from the sheepfolds; He brought him from tending ewes to be shepherd over His people Jacob- over Israel, His inheritance. 

 

Psalm 78:70-71

Reflection

God chooses to use the people who desire to follow Him. Of course, God has decided first to draw near to us, to all people. But he also responds to the hearts of men and women who want to be used for His glorious work in the world. David grew up in the fields as a shepherd. The youngest of his brothers, he was made to watch over the herds. He was not considered anyone significant until God saw into his heart. The LORD took David from the sheepfolds when He saw that David desired to serve and honor Him. As he has done for David, God has also done in countless lives throughout the ages.

God is a compassionate God, who is gracious to those who turn to Him in their sin. He is faithful to keep the promises that He made in covenant with His people, even when they have gone astray. But He also confirms the choices that people make either for or against Him. The LORD will not force anyone to serve Him against their will. Therefore, when the will of people goes against the Will of God, the LORD acts in order to fulfill His Will without them. This is why He will leave the places where people no longer honor Him in search of places where people are hungering and thirsting for His Word. This is why the LORD will surrender to their own devices those who have rejected His Truth, but will correct, sustain, and strengthen, and grow in faith others who seek Him. The LORD has already chosen to save. He has already chosen to be loving and kind. He has chosen to keep His holy promises. How do we choose to respond to what He has done?

Prayer

Loving Father, thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for keeping Your promises and for continuing to execute Your perfect Will in the world. Thank You for revealing Yourself to me, for showing me Who You are, and for inviting me to take part in the spread of Your Good News. Thank You for giving me purpose, and thank You for the promise of eternity You grant through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Please, LORD, continue to use me for Your glory. Please continue to guide me through a life that pleases You. I pray these things in the Name of Jesus Christ, AMEN.

Bible-in-a-Year Reading Plan (credit: Bible, studytools.com): John 14:1-14; 2 Chronicles 20:1-21:1; Psalm 78:56-72