Nov 14 Daily rhythm

Morning
Psalm 40:11-12

As for you, O LORD, you will not restrain your mercy from me; your steadfast love and your faithfulness will ever preserve me! For evils have encompassed me beyond number; my iniquities have overtaken me, and I cannot see; they are more than the hairs of my head; my heart fails me.

There is so much conflict in faithfully following the way of the Lord. His mercy will never fail. Rest in this. Yet also…. admit that evils are great and be horrified. Pray that the recognition of evil (inside and outside of you) will drive you over and over to the place of mercy.

Afternoon
Psalm 40:13-15

Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me! O LORD, make haste to help me! Let those be put to shame and disappointed altogether who seek to snatch away my life; let those be turned back and brought to dishonor who delight in my hurt! Let those be appalled because of their shame who say to me, “Aha, Aha!”

There are those out to destroy. Some want to shame us because of our sin, others want to discredit the one who saves us in spite of our sin. Sin is shameful. Sin is ugly, sin is horrifying. Your sin has been placed on the cross. The shame you deserved was poured on the head of the beautiful one. You can bear none. He already has. Thank him now for taking this from you.

Evening
Psalm 40:16-17   

But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who love your salvation say continually, “Great is the LORD!” As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought for me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God!

Two types – destroyers and delighters. Do you delight in Jesus? Right now, as you live out your days. DO you delight in him? Do you come empty handed and leave full of joy? Or do you come with what you can offer and leave empty handed? We serve a gracious and kind God. And we are needy beyond description. Write this on your heart today. “You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God!”