Scripture for the week of July 27, 2014

I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the Lord. Psalm 27:13-14 (NASB)

Have you ever found yourself in an unexpected situation that wiped out all your well made plans and left you teetering on the edge of the pit of despair? It’s tempting to settle for the disappointments of reality in the face of hopelessness and to think that God’s blessings are for everyone else, but not you. In such times, I’ve wondered if I am to just be grateful for my eternal salvation and nothing else really matters to God? But, this scripture challenges us to believe that the Lord desires to bestow His goodness and blessings upon us here and now, right where we live! If we will wait on the Lord, He is able to refill our hearts with the courage and strength to hope in Him; even when the impossibilities seem overwhelming. Lord, rescue us from the pit of despair and reveal your goodness to us in the land of the living. Amen.