December 19 2011

Reversal
 
Reading: Psalm 73:2-6; 9-14, 2 But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. 3 For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4 They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. 5 They are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills. 6 Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. 9 Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth. 10 Therefore their people turn to them and drink up waters in abundance. 11 They say, “How can God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?” 12 This is what the wicked are like— always carefree, they increase in wealth. 13 Surely in vain have I kept my heart pure; in vain have I washed my hands in innocence. 14 All day long I have been plagued; I have been punished every morning. [NIV]
Have you ever felt this way, where the world seems to have it easier? Often we think, “I’m a Christian… I love the Lord… therefore, I should be blessed and the world should be cursed.” Why does it seem like the ones that cheat, steal, manipulate the system, etc. seem to prosper and we have to work so hard to get anywhere or just to keep our head above the water? Why does it seem like they have it easier? Sometimes it just seems like everything is reversed. I love how the author of Psalm 73, Asaph, comes back around as he states, “16 When I tried to understand all this, it was oppressive to me 17 till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny. 18 Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin.” “23 Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.” It is truly amazing what simply coming into His presence will do for our perspective… offering clarity to see the value in the eternal rather than the temporary.
Challenge: Take some time today to enter into His presence, preferably to start your day with the proper perspective. Spend some quality time, literally basking in His presence, thinking and meditating on Him. Ask Him to reveal the value of the eternal today rather than dwelling on the temporary successes of others.



End of the Day Review
  
How did you spend time entering into His presence?
 
 
How did that impact your day and your perspective on the eternal rather than temporary values?