Tuesday August 18, 2020

Today’s Reading: Psalm 48

 Just as we heard, so we have seen in the city of the Lord of Hosts, in the city of our God; God will establish it forever. Selah.

Psalm 48:8

Meditation: God brings His Glory wherever He dwells. The psalmist boasts about the greatness of God which can been seen in the Holy City of Jerusalem. The City is beautiful, fortified on high ground. In gazing at it, the psalmist remembers the greatness of God. Just as a beautiful mansion or lush garden in some ways bears witness to what its owner might be like, so does the City show a glimpse of God’s likeness.

The true beauty of the City is due to the Glory of its Ruler. Within the citadels, God is the One known as the City’s stronghold. His Presence keeps other kings of surrounding regions trembling in fear before Him. In the temple, God’s faithful Love is what prompts surrender in worship. Moreover, the Lord’s Right Hand is what executes justice among the people. God abiding within the City is what makes the place one that is full of joy, one that radiates a gleaming reflection of His own Holy Character. God’s Glory is made evident wherever He dwells. While most of us do not have access to today’s Jerusalem, and none of us have access yet to God’s New Jerusalem to come, our lives lived with Him now bear witness to His Presence with us.

Where do we see God working in our midst? What have we surrendered to Him completely? Are there still places of darkness in our lives, is there fear or doubt, are there relationships we have where His Presence has yet to be known? What parts of our lives have yet to benefit from being exposed to Him? Remember, wherever the Lord dwells, His Glory is made known. Make available these places to God the Almighty King. See how the Light of His Truth, the faithfulness of His Love, and the fullness of His Joy transforms and renews!

Prayer: Glory and honor be to You Lord God, for Your Own Presence in my midst. Thank You for Your Strength which keeps me and Your Love which fills me with joy. I praise You for the countless ways You’ve worked in my life. As I draw nearer to You Lord, please make my heart a place which is emptied of all but Your Holy Spirit, that my life would indeed give You glory. In Jesus’ Precious Name I pray, AMEN.

Thru the Bible in a year (credit: Biblestudytools.com): Acts 11:19-30; Joshua 13-14; Job 27