A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional Day 163

Written by: Torrie Slaughter

Guiding Scripture: Psalm 130:8 ‘I wait [patiently] for the Lord, my soul [expectantly] waits, And in His word do I hope.’

🔴Expect Change

The Covid-Pandemic rearranged my perspective. While things became a little easier physically, it became emotionally stressful. Not everyone appreciated the prolonged quarantine, and many places did not adhere to the guidelines. I was surprised by the refusal, outrage, and then the stubbornness. 

Psalm 130 is a pilgrimage lament prayer and part of the early church’s penitential psalms (expressing sorrow and confessing sin). The journey was challenging, and an internal battle ensued. Experiencing life with an understanding of the spiritual and physical realms convicted the Psalmist.

In Acts 8:22, Peter said to Simon, the magician, “Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. ” 

Growth

The desire to have a connection with God grows our wisdom. Since we are human, the battle between this world and Heaven is always at hand. Like Simon, we can foolishly long to have authority; however, it is dangerous hypocrisy if we aren’t correctly motivated.

Waiting and expecting the Lord to open the eyes of our hearts is like freshwater. Hoping He will guide us into deeper understanding convicts us of our sin and cleanses shame. Simon asked Peter and John to pray for him (Acts 8:24), which was likely unexpected. (People can surprise us after God has rebuked their behavior.)

The trials of this life are tools to sharpen us mentally, physically, and spiritually. No matter what happens, we can choose to learn from everything. As I read today’s passages, the many times I’ve rushed ahead of the Lord struck me. I thought I waited long enough for answers. I soon realized that the changes that needed to happen were within me. 

When you begin to cry out and express sorrow for sin, don’t look outward. It is an internal issue. Through God’s mercy, He will release us from shame and guilt so we can live for Him. We are His ambassadors, representing a Kingdom yet to come. 

Prayer: Lord, I cry out to you. Please hear my voice and the utterance of my soul. Please be merciful to your servant. Teach me to watch, wait, and hope. It is with reverence I serve; thank you for loosening the grip of guilt and shame. Because your forgiveness is so complete, I humbly fall before Your throne. You are the Master of my life, and my soul’s hope is anchored in You. 

(Congratulations to our son Joshua! We are so proud of your accomplishments. Class of 2021!)