Intro: The burdens many people face in life can really be heavy and too much for them to carry alone. I minister to people all the time who are standing in the merging intersection of those weighty challenges and they are trying to decide which way to turn or what to do to bring healthy change. Although I seek to help in spiritual and tangible ways, my greatest responsibility is to help people connect with the God to whom nothing is impossible. God is able and we must, by faith, stand in that place of belief and know the Lord will provide a way of salvation. He has given us his promise that nothing can separate us from his love; therefore, victory is ours through Christ (Rom 8:35-37).
In our passage today, David stands in the midst of challenges and proclaims the sufficiency of God. David wants God’s people to remember, the Lord is great and righteous, he acts on behalf of his children doing wonderful works, his glory reaches the heavens, he is filled with patience and compassion, and he is all we need each day to flourish as we seek his kingdom (Mat 6:33). Developing a thriving relationship with the Lord is the wisest action a human being can take, because the Helper (Spirit) moves through that relationship.
In the Old Testament prayers and praises, David tells us the Lord is the Lifter of our hearts, as well as the Helper we need for every burden. In the New Testament Jesus tells us something very similar, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light” (Mat 11:28-30). Jesus offers his followers spiritual rest and an opportunity to come to him (yield) for learning and refreshment, because we must stop trying to carry the load of life alone.
Psalm 145:8-14 NLT
8
The Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
9
The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation.
10
All of your works will thank you, Lord, and your faithful followers will praise you.
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They will speak of the glory of your kingdom; they will give examples of your power.
12
They will tell about your mighty deeds and about the majesty and glory of your reign.
13
For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. You rule throughout all generations.
The Lord always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does.
14
The Lord helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for pouring your goodness into our lives and providing the strength we need while you bring salvation. Thank you for the spiritual rest and the glorious help of the Spirit who leads our lives forward into good things. Like David, may we be a witness to others of your faithfulness to walk through life with us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.