Digesting the Truth

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with His hand. Psalm 37:23,24 (NKJV)

Some Bible truths are easier for me to grasp than others. The first time I read them or hear them I have no trouble digesting the truth. Today’s passage was one that had to come in stages for me. God’s providential involvement in the fine details of my life came as I saw examples in Scripture lived out. Joseph easily comes to mind. When I come to the end of his story I can see how God was graciously directing his life step by step. Did it always make sense? No. Did it ever involve pain and disappointment? Yes. But God was faithfully bringing His plan to pass. I rest assured He is doing the same in my life.

One of the truths that first amazed me early on in my journey, was God actually delights in me and my ways. At first it was a concept that was entirely foreign to me. I had become so accepting of the lie that He tolerates me more than loves me, that I wasn’t sure how to handle His delight. It seemed almost too good to be true. But with time and seeing that phrase throughout Scripture, the truth began to take root and I learned to delight in His delight!

Many times our own misconceptions and preconceived ideas can wreak havoc along the way. There was a time when I thought the victorious Christian life would mean I had reached a point whereby I would never be bothered, offended, hurt, or disappointed by life again. I would live totally satisfied all the time. I would never feel sad again. And I certainly would not yield to temptation. With those things aside, I would live on a continual spiritual high. That kind of thinking only set me up for huge crashes. What I had to learn was I would fall at times, struggle at times, and hurt at times, but I would never stay down or be discarded by my heavenly Father. The thought that even in the midst of testings, trials, and turmoil His hand has a firm grip on me and He is sustaining me, is comforting beyond words.

So what do these truths do for me? They help me to see that with God I am not invisible, unloved, or abandoned. I matter to Him and am cared for by Him. Those are the truths that He is using to change me!

Father, thank you that You are consistent even when I am not. With flaws and all I am Yours. I marvel at such love. Amen.