GIVING THANKS TO GOD FOR HIS FAITHFUL LOVE

Psalm 118:4-9 says, "Let all who fear the Lord repeat: 'His faithful love endures forever.' In my distress, I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? Yes, the Lord is for me; he will help me. I will look in triumph at those who hate me. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in people. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes." Psalm 118 is a powerful celebration of gratitude, emphasizing the everlasting love of God. It serves as a profound reminder to give thanks, acknowledging that His faithful love endures through all circumstances. When the writer of this Psalm faced very distressing situations, He prayed to God and God answered and set him free. In dealing with those who hate him, he would not fear them because God was with Him. God was his safe place; therefore, he trusted in the LORD more than in people and those in power, like the princes.

Trusting God through prayer during our difficult circumstances removes fear and fills us with confidence that He will take care of us, no matter what happens. During the recent government shutdown, one of our friends is on the verge of being laid off because their company's government contract is delayed or in the process of being cancelled. I know that his job means a lot to him because it financially provides for his family, but he couldn't do anything about his situation. The only reason he has confidence that everything will work out is that he believes that God will take care of him and his family. His faith in God carries him through this difficult time. God becomes His safe place and comfort. Our situations may change in an instant, but we should not be afraid because God is with us and for us. Let us not trust in our jobs, possessions, or those who are in positions to help us, but let us trust God completely.

When we see God working in our situations, our immediate response will be to give him praise and express our deepest gratitude to Him. May the LORD remind us today to trust Him and not be afraid or worried about tomorrow, for He is our ever-present help in times of trouble. 

Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) What should I do when I face a sudden, unexpected, difficult situation?

Have I been in a difficult situation where God helped me? What was my reaction to God after He helped me? Describe your situation.

Take a moment to write down all your worries today. Then, lift them to God in prayer, surrendering them to His will and trusting in His guidance.

Prayer:

Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for being my ever-present help in times of need. Thank you for being my refuge I can run to when I am anxious and fearful. Please help me to continue to pray and put my trust in you when I face an unexpected difficult situation. Thank you for your faithful love towards me that endures forever. In your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.