Waiting And Surrendering
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Job 4 & 5 and Psalm 119:73-80 (NIV)
(Josephine Loo, Property Committee Chair)
READ:
Psalm 119:73-80 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Book of Psalms. It teaches us how to handle the persecutions and pressures that accompany an obedient walk of faith. Throughout the chapter, the psalmist repeatedly reminded us that God is in control and in constant pursuit of us. Psalm 119 reminds us that God is our maker and provider, but life is never without trials. And when faced with problems, Psalm 119 provides its take on how we should respond to each situation.
In Verses 73-80, it offers a glimpse of how the psalmist frames his perspective on God being the Almighty, and how by faith, in obeying God’s word and commands, it will lead us to salvation and eternal peace. Despite the difficulties, one should continually search for Him and not compromise.
APPLY:
In some sense, I tend to seek God only in desperate situations and am self-sufficient when life is alright. I find myself encountering God more powerfully when I am dealt very tough life situations. For everyday mishaps, like having a flat tyre, a broken down aircon, or driving through the ERP without sufficient funds in the IU, I tend to rely on myself to overcome the situation. I often become grumpy and frustrated, ruining my day and also those around me. But when faced with major predicaments where I am totally unprepared or beyond my control like the loss of a loved one, being told that a loved one is suffering from a terminal illness, being told that a loved one has lost a job through office politics, I will instantly remember to pray to God for guidance and a way out.
In our human ways, it is easy to react with worldly reactions and neglect the inner attitudes and godly postures of gratitude, mercy and love. No matter whether we are faced with minor or major situations where we feel stretched and helpless due to the demands of work, family and various commitments, Psalm 119 reminds us that we should seek God relentlessly, never giving in to sin. Some situations will force us to a corner to make hard choices, temptations may come in various forms, through people or things, but we must remember to centre ourselves on GOD, surround ourselves with godly friends and prayerfully seek His voice.
DO:
I need to always remember to pray for patience. James 1:4 : “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” My prayer for patience has taught me to rely on God totally. It has taught me to surrender everything to Him, especially those situations that are beyond me. I will pray unceasingly that in all circumstances, I will do the right thing. Hence, I will not regret but walk away comforted and stronger. I know thatGod’s plans are bigger than my plans; and I will strive to submit it all to Him.
PRAY:
Father, I pray that You will lead me along Your path to salvation. That I will, as Romans 12:12 says, Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
