Lenten Devotional
By Jeff Brant - Hope and Praise in Psalms

Scripture Reading:

Psalm 23:4, Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 33:20-21, We wait in hope for the Lord, He is our help, and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.

Psalm 150:6, Let everything that has breath, Praise the Lord!

Reflection:

From my earliest memories of reading the Bible, I remember other believers of the faith telling me that if I read anything in the Bible, read the book of Psalms. It seems to speak to you. I found that to be very true. I can relate and find great comfort, hope, and encouragement, in all the books of Psalms. 

The mega themes of the books speak about praise, God’s power, forgiveness, thankfulness, and trust. These are all the things I need to hear on a daily basis, to give me hope for the new day, as each morning begins. The scriptures above are some of my favorites. I enjoy and live for singing His praises, as in Psalm 150. I trust in His help in all I am about to face in a new day, as in Psalm 33.

And Psalm 23, I was advised many years ago, to recite over and over again whenever I was fearful, anxious or scared about what I was about to face. Throughout my life, I have found that it really works. As I recite that Psalm, over and over again, saying it out loud, a great calm, or peace, floods over me, and I am able to deal with the challenge at that moment.  I encourage you to do the same.  I have found it something I will always do, throughout the rest of my life, to help me get through whatever it is I need to, with the confidence that the Lord is with me!

Prayer:

Dear Lord God, continue this day to be the Good Shepherd you have promised to be for us, each and every day, and through each and every circumstance. Protect us, guide us, deliver us, and give us the confidence to show others, the joy, peace and comfort we receive by trusting in you!  Amen.