Bible Reading:
- Romans 13
- Psalm 31
Devotional Thoughts
David’s confidence in God is just incredible. After stating (Psalm 31:13) “I have heard many rumors about me, and I am surrounded by terror. My enemies conspire against me, plotting to take my life.” David confidently declares, “But I am trusting you, O Lord… my future is in your hands…” How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you.” What was David picturing? He had heard the rumors, and he knew his enemies were conspiring to kill him! But somehow he still believes that whatever God has in store is going to be “goodness!”
I like how NLT states where David’s confidence is. (Psalm 31:20) “You hide them in the shelter of your presence, safe from those who conspire against them. You shelter them in your presence far from accusing tongues.” ESV says, “In the cover of your presence, you hide them…” There definitely is a correlation in David’s thinking with the awareness of God’s presence, and David’s confidence in the goodness God has in store for him. “I have heard the rumors of people conspiring against me, but I don’t have anything to worry about because I am staying under the shelter of God’s presence! Those who accuse me can’t touch me because God has me!” He ends these thoughts in Psalm 31:21 with, “Praise the Lord, for he has shown me the wonders of his unfailing love.”
The wonder of God’s unfailing love is that He will never leave us or forsake us. (Heb 13:5) In his presence we will find “fullness of joy” as David did (Psalm 16:11 ). In his presence, we can be free from fear and anxiety, because we know His plans for us are for our good (Jer 29:11, Rom 8:28-29). God does have great goodness in store for us! (Ps 31:19) But, we will only come to enjoy it by dwelling in his presence!
In the end of Romans, Paul instructs us in Rom 13:13-14 Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives (NLT) walking properly (ESV) act as we should (NIrV) for all to see. Don’t participate in the darkness… instead clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus. (NLT) Put on the Lord Jesus like clothes (NIrV) Don’t think about how to satisfy sinful desires.
The key to walking properly is putting on Jesus every day, and learning to live with the constant awareness of his presence!
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