Pastor Stephen Dedman

The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭17‬-‭18‬

In times of trouble and distress, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and alone. We may be tempted to question whether God hears our prayers or cares about our struggles. However, today’s verses reassure us of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness to His people.

First, we are reminded that the Lord hears the cries of the righteous. No matter how desperate or dire our circumstances may seem, God is always attentive to the prayers of His people. He is not indifferent to our pain or suffering but is actively involved in our lives, working on our behalf to deliver us from all our troubles.

Second, we are comforted by the promise that the Lord is near to those who have a broken heart. In moments of grief, loss, or disappointment, God draws near to us with His comforting presence. He is our refuge and strength, offering peace to those who turn to Him in their time of need.

If you’re in a season of distress or brokenness, take comfort in the promises of Psalm 34:17-18. Know that God is with you, and He hears your prayers. Cry out to Him in faith, and trust in His unfailing love to sustain you and bring you through every trial. If you know someone who is in need of encouragement, pass this truth along to them.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your promise to hear the cries of Your people and to draw near to those who are brokenhearted. In times of trouble and distress, help me to turn to You in faith, knowing that You are my ever-present help in times of need. May Your comforting presence bring peace and healing to my heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.

You who laid the foundations of the earth, So that it should not be moved forever,
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭104‬:‭5‬

Psalm 104 is a hymn of praise that exalts the greatness and sovereignty of God as Creator and Sustainer of the universe. In verse 5, the psalmist reflects on God’s power and wisdom in establishing the foundations of the earth, ensuring its stability.

The imagery of God laying the foundations of the earth speaks to His role as the Creator and Ruler of the universe. It reminds us that God is not only the author of creation but also its sustainer, holding all things together by His power and wisdom.

The same God who created the heavens and the earth is the one who holds them in His hands, ensuring their stability and order. No matter how unstable the world may seem, we can trust in the unchanging nature of God’s sovereignty.

Just as God established the foundations of the earth with wisdom and care, so too does He govern the affairs of the world with steadfast love and faithfulness. His purposes are sure, and His plans will ultimately prevail.

Take a moment today to marvel at the wonder of God’s creation and His sovereign rule over all things. As you contemplate the stability of the earth’s foundations, let it serve as a reminder of the unchanging nature of God’s character and His faithful care for His creation.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your sovereignty and power as Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Help me to trust in Your wisdom and care, knowing that You hold the world in Your hands. Let me find peace and security in Your unchanging character and steadfast love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.
‭‭Exodus‬ ‭14‬:‭14‬

The promise given to the Israelites in Exodus 14:14 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and power to deliver His people in times of trouble. Like the Israelites, we may find ourselves facing overwhelming challenges, surrounded by enemies and obstacles that seem impossible to overcome. In these moments, we can easily slip into fear and doubt, forgetting that we serve a God who is greater than any problem we may face.

We are reminded that our battles are not ours alone but they belong to the Lord, who is mighty to save and deliver. Our role is not to rely on our own strength or wisdom but to surrender to God’s sovereignty and trust in His perfect plan and timing.

God assures us that when we entrust our battles to Him, we can experience a peace that surpasses all understanding. It is a peace that comes from knowing that we are not alone, that God is with us, fighting on our behalf.

Today, you can find strength and courage in knowing that the Lord Himself goes before you, fighting for you and leading you to victory. Hold onto peace, knowing that God is faithful to fulfill His promises and deliver you from every trial and adversity you face.

Pray

Lord, thank You for the assurance that You are fighting for me and that I need only to be still and trust in Your deliverance. Help me to surrender my battles to You and to hold onto the peace that comes from knowing You are with me. Strengthen my faith and give me courage to face whatever challenges come my way. In Jesus’ name, amen.