Those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land. Psalm 37:9
What a struggle American farmers have endured in recent years, many losing their land or at least plagued by staggering debt and decreasing land values. Israel in David’s day faced similar problems. Many righteous people saw the wicked prospering at their expense. They were filled with anger and worry. But the anger and worry only led them deeper into trouble.
We survey the past year and see many difficult and discouraging events. We cry out for help. All the while we notice that the wicked seem to be prospering. Anger fills our heart. “It’s not fair. Why should they prosper while I struggle by trying to do what is right? Why, God, do You permit these things to happen?” Worry consumes us. “What will I do now? How can I make ends meet?” Anger and worry only lead us deeper into trouble. Self-pitying, we feel helpless.
But the psalmist suggests that we trust the Lord for help. He knows that God alone gives the victory. True happiness comes from the Lord and not the desires of our heart. Ultimately the wicked will destroy themselves, while the Lord upholds the righteous. We need to wait patiently for the Lord to act.
God our Help in ages past and our Hope for years to come, sent His Son Jesus Christ to live on this earth and die for the world’s sins. He gives us an inheritance which will not fade. He freely gives us trust in His promises. Anger and worry aside, we trust the Lord for help now and eternally.
PRAYER: Lord God, help me to trust in You and look to You for help. Amen.
(Devotions from “My Daily Devotion" by Dr. Stephen J. Carter, copyright 1988, CPH. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be printed, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission of Concordia Publishing House. For ordering information, please contact CPH at 800-325-3040 or visit www.cph.org.)
Today's Bible Readings: Job 14-16 Matthew 10:1-20
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