Right Between the Eyes

I was browsing through some of the Psalms this morning, and noticed how the theme of trust shows up over and over. These ancient songs remind us that God is faithful and powerful. We're warned against putting our trust in men, and encouraged to totally depend upon the Lord. It was a beautiful reminder to place everything in God's hands -- our need for a new facility (in just 2 weeks!), the challenges of a growing church and multiplying leadership roles, my frustrations with our family's all-too-busy schedule, etc. In the words of the psalms, I found refreshment, renewed courage, and peace.

Then I stumbled into Psalm 37. I almost felt ambushed by God's Spirit. Up to this point, the psalms had been soothing my soul and strengthening my faith. But there was something unique waiting for me in Psalm 37. I'm not sure how to describe it, because I don't want to be too subjective here. I suppose it felt like God was waiting until he had my full attention in order to speak directly to my heart.

"Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you." (vv. 3-5 NLT)

"Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act. Don’t worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes." (v. 7)

"Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper— it only leads to harm." (v. 8)

"Day by day the Lord takes care of the innocent, and they will receive an inheritance that lasts forever. They will not be disgraced in hard times; even in famine they will have more than enough." (vv. 18-19)

"The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." (vv. 23-24)

"Put your hope in the Lord. Travel steadily along his path. He will honor you by giving you the land." (v. 34)

"Look at those who are honest and good, for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace." (v. 34)

I don't know how these words resonate with you and where you're at right now, but they're still ringing in my soul. The Spirit has smacked me right between the eyes here, and God has my full attention.