Marie’s daily verse: Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).

DAILY DEVOTION, May 5, 2024

I have trusted in Your mercy; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.I will sing to the Lord, Because He has dealt bountifully with me (Psalm 13:5-6).

This is an interesting Psalm. Before the above text, the author launches complaint after complaint against God. God has forgotten him. God is hiding His face from him. His enemies prevail against him. Then in verse 5, he comes to his senses. He remembers who God is, the ever-faithful One. He remembers God is merciful, and he can always count on that. He recalls that he possesses salvation, and that is secure. He breaks into song, remembering how God has dealt bountifully with him.

There is a simple lesson here for us. Yes, we have problems. Yes, sometimes it seems that God does not hear our prayers. Sometimes we wonder if God has forgotten us. When we are discouraged, we need to remember – – – God loves us. He cares for us. He is a merciful God whose mercy endures forever, a phrase repeated over and over in the Book of Psalms. Through faith in Jesus, we have enduring salvation. These facts should cause us to break into song, praising God for His ever-present goodness and mercy.

God of love, remind me when I am discouraged to remember who You are. I know You have not forgotten me. Forgive me when I complain against You. Thank You for Your mercy which brings Your salvation to me. Thank You for Your bountiful blessings, which are too numerous for me to count. I praise You in the Name of Jesus, Amen.