Readings for today: 1 Chronicles 2:18-4:4, Acts 24, Psalms 4, Proverbs 18:16-18
We live in an anxious world. More and more people are suffering from anxiety disorders, depression, self-harm, and even suicide. There is something desperately wrong with the pace and rhythm of our lives. Something desperately wrong about the goals we are pursuing. We chase wealth and fame and success. We make idols out of youth and physical beauty. We seek to satisfy every sexual desire. But we are not happy. We are not content. We are not at peace. In fact, we are more anxious than ever.
The Psalmist teaches us a better way. “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” (Psalms 4:8) King David has everything a person could ever want. He holds the power of life and death in his hands. He has wealth beyond measure. He is famous and beloved by his people. He truly can do whatever his heart desires. But he does not look for peace from any of these things. He seeks it from the Lord.
How have you been sleeping lately? Do you dream at night? Is your rest deep and peaceful? Or do you find yourself struggling with insomnia. Struggling to sleep more than a few hours at a time. Is your sleep plagued by nightmares? Anxious thoughts that take on a life of their own as soon as you close your eyes? Does your pace cause you to skip out on sleep? Try to get by on four to five hours a night? Let me gently suggest you are heading for a crash. You are trying to live according to your own strength. You are pursuing the ways of this world which will eventually result in pain and suffering if it hasn’t already.
David understood stress. He carried the weight of a nation on his shoulders. Though beloved by his people, he definitely had his enemies. He begins his prayer by crying out to God for help. “Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!” His enemies spread lies about him. They are actively trying to tear him down. Question his authority. Question his integrity. Question his honor. “O men, how long shall my honor be turned into shame? How long will you love vain words and seek after lies?” David acknowledges his frustration but claims the promises of God. He knows the Lord preserves the righteous. He understands God has His hand on those who fear Him. God will be with him to protect him and guide him. He will hear David’s prayer and respond. “But know that the Lord has set apart the godly for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent.” This is why David can sleep in peace. He knows he doesn’t have to take matters into his own hands. God is in control. God commands his destiny. God determines when he wakes and when he sleeps. God has raised him up to his position and God will preserve his life as king.
Do you live with the same faith? The same trust in the Lord? In the midst of all your fears and anxieties and stress and struggles, do you continue to worship God? Do you trust in His Word? Do you listen for His voice and His affirmation more than you do the affirmation of those around you? Is the joy of the Lord your strength? Listen again to David’s words, “Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the Lord. There are many who say, "Who will show us some good? Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!" You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.” (Psalms 4:5-7)
Friends, God wants you to experience peace. He wants you to rest secure in the knowledge that He loves you. Delights in you. Treasures you. You are His child. Bought with the precious blood of His Only Begotten Son. He will protect you. He will provide for you. He will never turn His face from you. His joy is worth more than any wealth you can accumulate. Any success you can achieve. Any fame you can gain. Place your trust in Christ today and find the deep satisfaction your soul longs for!
Readings for tomorrow: 1 Chronicles 4:5-5:17, Acts 25, Psalms 5, Proverbs 18:19