Thursday August 5, 2021

Today’s Reading: Psalm 99

He spoke to them in a pillar of cloud; they kept His decrees and the statutes He gave them.

Psalm 99:7

Reflection: The LORD Almighty, in all His perfection and wisdom, in all His splendor and might, in all His omniscience chooses to use imperfect people to bring about His work on earth. When He rescued the Hebrews from bondage in Egypt, the LORD exhibited great power through terrible signs and wonders. Yet, before He did all this, He spoke to Moses from the burning bush. The LORD would bring into the picture an imperfect man with a history of rage and a impediment in speech to lead the people through the wilderness and speak on God’s behalf. Moses would please the LORD in obedience, and would anger the LORD in his sinful failings. Because of his disobedience to God, Moses would not enter the Promised Land that was prepared for the people. But he would still be blessed to walk closely with God and to be counted as one of His own.

What an incredible story, which brings to mind the assurance of our Holy King’s patience and faithful love. As He did with Moses, God plucks us from our lives of wandering in sin and plants our feet upon the solid foundation of His truth by His Word. As imperfect as we are, He chooses us to take part in His mighty work. Though we fail even in our best efforts to do well, God takes what we have to offer and uses it in amazing ways. Even as we come to Him in our misdeeds, the King of justice and righteousness looks upon us with compassion and forgives us.

What a glorious King He is, a loving Ruler Who reigns over us! For His wondrous deeds He deserves great praise, but for somehow being able to use us fallen creatures, the LORD deserves praise all the more.

Prayer: Everlasting God, I marvel at Your great wisdom, holiness, and strength. I marvel at Your goodness and righteousness. I wonder at Your great compassion and mercy, at Your great patience upon Your people. Thank You for being so loving, even in my failings, for being so faithful even in my sin. Thank You for all that You do for me, LORD. Thank You for inviting me to take part in Your work here on earth. Though I fail, LORD, thank You for choosing to use me to further Your Gospel. As I draw near to You, please sanctify me by Your Spirit, that I would bring You glory in the way that I serve You. All these things I pray to You in the Name of my Lord and Savior Jesus, AMEN.

Bible-in-a-Year Reading Plan (credit: Bible, studytools.com): Revelation 4; Nehemiah 5:1-7:4; Psalm 99