Active Faith In God’s Sovereignty, Not Circumstances
BRD REFLECTION 2025
1 Chronicles 16; 17 and Psalm 73 (NIV)
(Lim Wee Lee from Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Psalm 73 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Asaph, as the chief musician for King David, began Psalm 73 with a declaration of the goodness of God to Israel and to those who are pure in heart. He recounted his personal struggles and expressed his envy and frustration towards the wicked. Asaph saw the ungodly leading good lives. They were always at ease, not plagued by human ills and increasing in riches and remaining carefree. This contradicted the justice and goodness of God. He was deeply distressed, and his faith was shaken. He questioned God’s justice and governance of the universe (vs. 13-16). Then he sought refuge in God’s sanctuary, confessing his vulnerability, ignorance, and bitterness. Through meditation, he gained a new perspective in the house of the Lord. He recognized that God would lead him in this life through His wisdom and counsel (vs.23-26). Ultimately, he had faith that God would plan the downfall of those who are unfaithful and rebellious. He became a messenger of God’s goodness and of the eternal perspective he had gained in the house of the Lord (vs. 27-28).
APPLY:
I have gained the following insights from the psalm:
1. Acknowledge life’s challenges: recognize and accept that suffering, injustice, sickness, and human vulnerability are part of life’s journey.
2. Cultivate humility and patience: nurture Christ-like character and child-like faith by staying close to God and understanding His character and attributes.
3. Exercise faith and trust: put my trust in God’s deliverance, recall His promises and goodness through prayers and guidance by the Holy Spirit.
4. Confess doubts and concerns: bring my fears and uncertainties before God in prayer and submit to His will.
5. Meditate and internalize: seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance to nurture a deeper trust in God’s sovereignty and timing when faced with injustice.
DO:
I will:
1. maintain a clean heart before God: affirm God’s goodness and trust in His sovereignty.
2. Trust in the Lord: lean not on my own understanding, but on God’s wisdom and guidance (Proverbs 3:5-6).
PRAY:
Loving God, thank You for forgiving me when I confess my sins. Thank You for guiding me back to the right path when I falter. Remind me to seek Your wisdom and trust in Your sovereignty. Help me to abide in You, delight in Your presence, and reflect Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Reference:
