Every Wednesday
The Goodness of God
By: Megan J. Conner in crosswalk.com
“I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” - Psalm 27:13 (NIV)
Do you have an anchor scripture or favorite passage of the Bible that you regularly return to for comfort or encouragement? I have a few, but one of my favorites is Psalm 27. I have read and reread this psalm more times than I can count. I even handwrote the full psalm in my journal because I am a writer and writers best retain information through the physical act of writing (or typing) and reading. Regardless of how I have interacted with the text, I just can’t seem to get away from this particular passage. It’s like I somehow knew these words would need to be forever etched into my heart.
Psalm 27 was written by David during one of his many flights from those who sought to take his life. Though it looked as if the deck was completely stacked against him, David determined to put his faith in the Lord for refuge and rescue. Many of the declarations he makes in this narrative are bold refutes against the temptation to despair. In verse three, he states, “though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.” He continues on in verse eight to say, “My heart says of you, ‘Seek his face!’ Your face, LORD, I will seek.”
Ultimately, what David desired most was intimacy and companionship with the Lord, for that really is the only place where we can obtain true and lasting comfort. David understood that his outward circumstances did not have to dictate the inward position of his heart. The goodness of God remained even if it looked like everything around him was falling apart.
No matter your age, occupation, or geographic location, like David, life has likely thrown you some hard knocks. Unfortunately, disappointments and hardships are guaranteed in this fallen world. No one is immune. In fact, the Bible actually promises that we will encounter struggle. Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).
The good news is that we are not alone in our trials. The Bible affirms that God is present and helping us through our circumstances. Our Heavenly Father promises He will never leave or forsake us (Deut. 31:6), He is close to those who call upon Him (Psalm 145:18), He will draw near to us when we draw near to Him (James 4:8), and He will help us and uphold us with his righteous right hand (Isa. 41:10). You can be confident that God has not left you alone in the difficulties or challenges you are facing. Sometimes, our souls just need to be reminded of God's unmovable, unfailing love.
In Psalm 27, David refuted the lie of defeat by declaring who God is, all He had already done, and the Biblical promises He has made to those who love Him. Reciting these truths and recalling times when you have personally witnessed God’s care and provision in your life helps shift your perspective from what seems to be lacking to what has been provided. In light of this fresh perspective, hope can be renewed. And it is here, in this place of confident assurance in Him, that you can look out beyond the momentary affliction you are facing and say: No matter what is going on…
“I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” - Psalm 27:13 (NIV)
Intersecting Faith & Life:
Do you have an anchor scripture you turn to again and again in times of trouble? If so, when was the last time you recited it?
One of the best ways to stir up our souls is through song. Ultimately, the psalms penned by David were meant to be sung. Music has such an incredible ability to soothe and encourage our blistered or discouraged hearts. One song that ministers to me when I need to be reminded of the abundance in my life rather than the lack is The Goodness of God by Bethel Music and Jenn Johnson. Take some time to look up the lyrics or listen to this song today. May it remind you of God’s love, faithfulness, and goodness present in your life.