How precious is our Father to us? How about his Word?
Where do we turn when troubles arise or when others despise us? What about when troubles arise and others despise us because of our faith?
Our faith will be tested in numerous ways throughout life, and the only way we can endure is if we truly delight in God. If we recognize his righteousness in the midst of the confusion around us and desire him, desire understanding, desire zeal.
Those desires don’t come by themselves; they come by the grace of God. They come by reading the words that God has revealed to us e-v-e-r-y day, and especially in times of doubt and trouble, reminding ourselves of his promises, his goodness, and his truth. His word serves as a tangible, inspiring, calming, convicting, comforting rock during the storm if only we will use it. Though as Christians we need to let our reasonableness be known, let our lights shine, serve others in love, the fact is that Christ advised “if the world hates you, remember it hated me first.” Sometimes despite our efforts, we will be mocked, ridiculed, slandered, attacked for our faith, not for any wrong that we have done but because of the gospel, because of our dedication to truth (although, we have to diligently remember there is a fine line between zeal and a lack of wisdom, between trying to persuade others and trying to win an argument. We can’t confuse being zealous with being a jerk) Trouble and anguish may find us out. We may have enemies that either disregard the words of God, or abuse them, or are ignorant of them.
And when those times come, will we have the kind of foundation in our faith that will cause us to respond as beautifully as the psalmist in 119:137-114:
“My zeal consumes me,
because my foes forget your words.
Your promise is well tried,
and your servant loves it.
I am small and despised,
yet I do not forget your precepts.
Your righteousness is righteous forever,
and your law is true.
Trouble and anguish have found me out,
but your commandments are my delight.
Your testimonies are righteous forever
give me understanding that I may live.”
Will we rest on our rock, on his word, continually seeking understanding and wisdom, or will we be crippled by anxiety when the privileges, the friendships, the comforts of this world are stripped away on account of our beliefs? Is our faith built on a deep love for God and his righteousness, come what may, or is it just another fair-weather weekend pastime?
Today’s reading: 2 Samuel 10-11, Psalm 119:137-144, Philippians 4- Colossians 1
Pursue Righteousness 