Psalm 145:8-14 (TPT)
8
You’re kind and tenderhearted to those who don’t deserve it
and very patient with people who fail you.
Your love is like a flooding river overflowing its banks with kindness.
9
God, everyone sees your goodness,
for your tender love is blended into everything you do.
10
Everything you have made will praise you, fulfilling its purpose.
And all your godly lovers will be found bowing before you.
11
They will tell the world of the lavish splendor of your kingdom
and preach about your limitless power.
12
They will demonstrate for all to see your miracles of might
and reveal the glorious majesty of your kingdom.
13
You are the Lord who reigns over your never-ending kingdom through all the ages of time and eternity!
You are faithful to fulfill every promise you’ve made.
You manifest yourself as kindness in all you do [all God’s works are holy].
14
Weak and feeble ones you will sustain.
Those bent over with burdens of shame you will lift up.
As I am reading the passage for today, my thoughts lean toward the word “bent” in verse 14, so I am digging deeper. According to biblical definition, to be “bent” is to be unable to straighten oneself up or unable to fulfill God’s law of love. Human inclination is bent toward rebellion and we cannot please God or fulfill his standard of love on our own. We find ourselves bent, weak, and weary simply trying to be good or holy in our own strength. Our “bent” posture can be changed if we will allow ourselves to be “yoked” or connected to the power of Christ the Good Shepherd. We must willingly bow to the Savior who uses his power as Shepherd to straighten up our lives. “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). Christ alone can lift us up and help us bear the challenges of life that evil tries to use to hinder our relationship with God. Only Christ can help us move beyond sin and shame, because he is Perfect Love. He is the Sustainer we need in order to enjoy the goodness of God. We are all inclined toward self-sufficiency which is rebellion against God; a form of idolatry to self. If you are feeling “bent” in some area of your life, then please choose to “bow and be yoked” to the Good Shepherd.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for straightening up my life and giving me the lift I need to enjoy each day in your goodness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.