21 Days of Prayer and Fasting: Day 9, John 9 and Psalm 9
Read: John 9, Psalm 9
Who: Who wrote this book? Who did they write it to? What was their reason for writing?
What: What does this passage say about God, me, and my relationship with Him?
But the Lord reigns forever,
executing judgment from his throne.
8 He will judge the world with justice
and rule the nations with fairness.
9 The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed,
a refuge in times of trouble.
10 Those who know your name trust in you,
for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.
11 Sing praises to the Lord who reigns in Jerusalem.[a]
Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds.
12 For he who avenges murder cares for the helpless.
He does not ignore the cries of those who suffer. Psalm 9: 7-12 (NLT)
The Psalmist is describing the immensity of God, his judgement, his power, etc. but also says he is a shelter for the oppressed and doesn’t abandon or ignore us. There is an amazing tension between being big and powerful and yet so tender and close. Only God can be described in this manner.
He is one to be revered and sought after.
Why: Why is this truth important?
These attributes of God are what shape our relationship with him. He is the source of power and strength, which makes him worth worshipping. He is also the one who cares about us deeply. It is amazing that we can be so close to a God of immeasurable power.
How: How would my life/character/perspective be different if I truly believed this truth?
If we truly believed in the strength of God, we would trust him in spite of circumstances. The same is true if we really believe how deeply he cares for us.
Prayer:
God, I”m amazed by how great you are and how much you care for me. Help me trust you in all things.
Amen
Jon Burtram is the lead pastor at Redemption Church Charlottesville, a die hard Redskins fan, and an amazing husband and father.
Jonathan earned a Masters of Divinity from Regent University and a degree in Biblical Studies from Evangel University. He has been in the pastorate for over ten years, and he is an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God.