PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Psalm 86
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it.” (Psalm 86:17)
I believe that there is a God, and that God is good.
Though I cannot see God, I see signs of God all around me.
That’s not all I see; I also see signs of evil and misery.
Many times I feel like David in this Psalm – ‘do something good, God!!!’
I share David’s belief that God is ultimately compassionate and gracious.
Slow to anger, and overflowing in love and faithfulness (v.15).
Honestly, I have to believe this, otherwise I’m not sure I could go on.
Although I see evil, I choose to focus on God and good and hope.
And I keep praying, like David, to see signs of goodness.
Sometimes I’m praying for God to do something good.
Other times I’m praying for eyes to see it, because the signs are there.
Acts of kindness, miracles, friends that care, unexpected gifts.
I want to see it, but I want others to see it too, even ‘enemies’.
If we all would focus on seeing and being good, our world would change!
PRAYER
Lord, open my eyes to see your goodness, and open their eyes to see it too. May your goodness inspire us all to reflect your goodness.
“Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.” Sometimes I wrestle with the sensual as I seek to be more spiritual. My human desires can be distracting as I seek to be closer to God. Help me Lord to keep my eyes and senses straight and not be distracted – but rather that I may enjoy my senses in a God honouring way as you designed me. May I have an undivided heart that I may trust you and walk in your ways more nearly every day!
How great is our God!
Where is my focus?
When I see all the troubles in this world my focus still needs to be on my God. He is in control. When I look at my life and what has happened, He was and is there at all times. I just need to focus on Him and not the sins of the world nor my own sins. He delivers. He is here. He continues to take my hand to lead me and comfort me. Today is His day as is every day. Praise Him. Serve Him. Walk with Him daily.
When we walk with the Lord
in the light of his word,
what a glory he sheds on our way!
While we do his good will,
he abides with us still,
and with all who will trust and obey.