“Behold our shield, O God, and look upon the face of Your anointed. For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside. I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.” (Psalm 84:9-10)

Look to Christ, our shield, and see what He has accomplished on behalf of those who love You. Standing in Your presence is better than anything this world could ever offer. There is nothing on earth greater than You, for You created all things. Lead me, O Lord, in the way of truth which You have established that no wickedness would take root in my house. You are God and there is no other.

Lord, the wicked all around me tempt me and seek to lead me astray. Keep my heart in Your presence and help me to think on the goodness of your mercy and the truth of Your Word. Your Word abides forever and Your ways are good and true. Help me to not waver from the faith You have given me that I would dwell in Your house now and forever. You are my God.

Thomas said of You, Jesus, “My Lord and my God.” Help me see through the clouds of this world and the wickedness that is all around me to know the simple truth that in You alone can I trust. You have accomplished all that needs to be done that I would dwell in the house You have prepared for all who love You. You are my strength and my shield and in You alone can I and do I trust. Amen.

“Your way, O God, is holy; what god is great like our God? You are the God who works wonders; You have made known Your strength among the peoples.” (Psalm 77:13-14)

We humans need to be reminded that we are not the center of existence. The gods we create are nothing. The God who created everything is the center of all. We are called to look to Him and know that He who made all things looks at us and desires that we learn to love Him as He loves us. He is our rock and strength. He is gentle and patient, loving and kind. Come to the Lord and see.

Lord I am wrapped up in my own mind and my attention span is so short. One minute I am here and the next minute I am there. Clear my mind and help me focus that I would learn the simple truth that You are God and there is no other. Lead me away from the sinfulness of this world and into Your presence, living according to Your never-failing Word which You have given.

Lord Jesus, You have come humbly into the world and invited as many as believe to join You. Guide me in Your way of grace this day to learn once again that You through whom all things have been made have called me to come to You and live as life was meant to be lived. In praise and thanksgiving, may my life be given back to You to walk humbly in Your ways all the days of my life. Amen.