Sabbath Psalms - Shadow Play

Psalm 91:1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. (NIV)

My two-and-a-half-year-old granddaughter Ellie discovered her shadow recently and like any other child, she started playing games with it. She tried to run and catch it; she attempted to jump up and down on it; she even began talking to it as if it were another person. Her childlike innocence is a beautiful blessing to behold, and she even encouraged me to play games with my own shadow. I guess my neighbors thought I was being a silly old man with Ellie on my driveway, but her laughter and squeals of delight were wonderful, too.

I like today’s highlighted verse from Psalm 91 because of the comfort and assurance that resting in God’s shadow conveys. It makes me feel that God is mindful of all of us, joyfully watching over us like a parent or grandparent. I also feel, just like the psalmist before me, that there is a level of protection attached to God’s shadow which in today’s world, with its uncertain and chaotic ways, creates more confidence within me that no matter what is going on, God is always in control.

Perhaps you may be presently dealing with some uncertainty and anxiety in your own life. Maybe you’re fearful of the future and somewhat depressed by what we’re all dealing with these days. Perhaps you feel like giving up or are so worn down with worries about the world that your energy and focus is depleted. Please take time to rest in God’s shadow and receive it as a sanctuary or safe haven where you can renew your faith and refresh your weary soul.

Point to ponder: How overwhelmed am I with the world’s problems? Am I willing to let go of the things I cannot control and simply rest in God’s protective shadow?

Prayer:  Lord God, You see and know everything. You love our world and all its people, so help us to remember that we are Yours forever. Whenever we are fearful, we ask You to remain faithful; whenever we are wearied with our worries, renew us with Your love. In Your Holy Name and under Your constant Shadow, we live and pray. Amen.

John Stuart is a Scottish Presbyterian pastor now living in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Beautiful Words - Isaiah 40:1

Isaiah 40:1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.

It is one of the most beautiful verses in the Bible and it has helped countless numbers of people throughout the centuries. It speaks to our hearts, especially when we are going through hard times, unexpected issues, or disturbing moments. It causes us to fully depend on God in situations or crises that threaten to overwhelm. When we read or hear these words being uttered, God is letting us know that He is control and that our lives are very important to Him.

We tend to think about comfort as being something that a loving parent will offer a crying child. We visualize it as a time of consolation between lovers or friends, especially when disappointment has touched their lives. We also look to our leaders to provide comfort in times of natural disasters. Their presence allows us to believe that we can overcome the troubles that beset us; their caring words enable us to feel better about our ability to endure. All of these examples can be applied when God seeks to comfort us as His children, friends, and people.

Perhaps you are experiencing a difficult time right now. Maybe you’re anxious about what lies ahead of you. Perhaps you are worried about the future, a family member, or an issue that never seems to go away. Please allow God into that situation, so that He may all of His love, wisdom, and comfort to help you get through this unsettling time. Let Him speak words of comfort to your heart; let Him cause His love to overflow your soul and bring peace to your mind.

Point to ponder

What is my greatest issue right now? Am I willing to let God comfort me?

Prayer: Lord God, in moments of stress, pressure, or disappointment we become very human, anxious, and frail. Fill us with your strength and love; let Your mercy and comfort heal the hurt within us. Be near to us, so we may receive Your compassion and wisdom. In Christ’s name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come along and join us for worship at 11:00 AM. You will be made very welcome 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s drawings called ‘Promise.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Promise.