I read Psalm 13 in my devotions yesterday and the psalmist made a statement that really caught my attention and caused me to think. In the verses leading up to this statement the psalmist describes the situation he is in. He is in a season of suffering and oppression, faced with conflict and obstacles all around him. And in that place he says, 'But I trust in your unfailing love.' (v.5)
At first reading this struck me as odd. I was expecting something along the lines of trusting in God's strength, His provision, or protection. But these are not mentioned. Instead, the psalmist chooses to trust in God's unfailing love. I think if I was facing a trial I would want to trust in God's strength to defeat my enemies, His provision to meet my needs, or His power to remove any obstacles. I don't know if my first response would be to turn to His love.
As I thought about this some more I began to wonder if it would actually make any difference in what aspect of God I was trusting in (I'm not suggesting we have to choose, just sharing some thoughts). The more I thought about it, the more I came to the conclusion that trusting in God's unfailing love is absolutely the best possible response. God's power, strength and provision may meet my need but they wouldn't necessarily change me. But when I focus on God's love I can't help but be changed.
This also removes the trap of God not responding in the way I would like, or expect, Him to. If I'm expecting a display of strength and none comes, this could lead to despair. If I'm looking for resources to just flow in and they don't, this could lead to discouragement. But when I choose to focus on God's love I will never be disappointed.
Well those are just some of my thoughts from what I read today. I do want to strengthen my awareness and focus on God's love.
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