April 23, 2019
Psalm 118:17-23
In the midst of an ever-changing world, how important is it to you to have a solid foundation for your life? I want stability even in the midst of unsettling times; in fact, I crave it. Life will happen, but it does not need to cause me to throw up my hands and give up. I am not a victim; I am victorious in Christ (1 Cor 15:57). We were created to enjoy life, so how is that possible when we really cannot control life?
The answer is found in acknowledging our life “Cornerstone.” God has provided Jesus as our Cornerstone (Matt 21:42). It is the work of Christ to bring a solid foundation, shape, and stability to our lives. He helps us endure and overcome any storm or challenge life brings. We were created to live. The life God has in store for us is prosperous and engaging; we are to live in the power outflowing Christ’s resurrection and experience the power that raised Christ from the dead even in the midst of suffering (Phi 3:10). As we face life each day, our part is to stand on the foundation of God’s love found in Christ and “Whatever we do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Col 3:17). We must give thanks and live with a spirit of gratitude each day, because the Lord is our Savior. So, when life sends you a challenge, look at that challenge as a way to watch Christ work in your life. In our passage, the psalmist calls God’s people to acknowledge the goodness and faithfulness of God to provide for his children. Alleluia—Praise ye Yah! (Praise the Lord!)
Psalm 118:17-23
17
I will not die; instead, I will live
to tell what the Lord has done.
18
The Lord has punished me severely,
but he did not let me die.
19
Open for me the gates where the righteous enter,
and I will go in and thank the Lord.
20
These gates lead to the presence of the Lord,
and the godly enter there.
21
I thank you for answering my prayer
and giving me victory!
22
The stone that the builders rejected
has now become the cornerstone.
23
This is the Lord’s doing,
and it is wonderful to see.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your constant saving and amazing grace working in my life. In word or deed, help me to bring you glory as you are the Cornerstone of my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.