4 Minute Read

Today’s Bible Reading:

Joshua 11:1-12:24
Luke 17:11-37
Psalm 84:1-12
Proverbs 13:5-6

Today’s Bible Verse(s):

Psalm 84:10-12 (NLT): “A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. For the Lord God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, what joy for those who trust in you.”

Reflections on Today’s Bible Verse(s):

The verses that I have chosen for today are incredible! To keep our focus on them, I will only add two very brief insights:

1. The Psalmist repeatedly acknowledged that our craving for happiness can be met in the Lord. (Christianity is not merely a religion, it is a relationship.)

2. Regardless of what “bad” things happen to us and/or around us, if we recognize that our God is good and that our craving for happiness can be met in Him, then we are in a much better position to deal with the trials that come our way.

So, friend, don’t focus on today’s difficulties. Sure, we might need to acknowledge them and deal with them. But don’t let them take up too much time in your mind. Focus primarily on the Lord. Enjoy Him.

O soul are you weary and troubled
No light in the darkness you see
There’s light for a look at the Savior
And life more abundant and free


Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

Matt Ellis is the pastor of First Baptist Church in Polk City, Florida (fbcpolkcity.com). His latest book is God’s Grace in the Real World. Connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

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