Devotion for Saturday, August 18, 2018

“You have shortened the days of his youth; You have covered him with shame. How long, O Lord? Will You hide Yourself forever? Will Your wrath burn like fire?” (Psalm 89:45-46)

At times it feels as though the Lord is severely punishing you. It is not punishment. Chastening is not punishment. The Lord loves you and His rod and staff form you into the image of Christ. Do not listen to those who say, “What have you done.” That is wickedness. Instead, ask the Lord, “What are You doing?” The Lord loves you more than you are able to fathom.

Lord, help me to understand that the breadth and depth of Your love is so great that nothing in all of creation is able to separate me from You. Guide me through every circumstance to know that in You is the hope and glory of all ages. In You alone do I have my being. Lead me in every circumstance to know that in You alone will I find life, liberty, and all that is needed.

Lord Jesus, You were not just chastened, but suffered the severe punishment of bearing all of our sin on Your body. You did this that we might be forever freed from sin’s recompense. Lead me in the way You know I need to go that in all things I would praise and honor the Father, returning the great love You have lavished on me. Amen.