Sought
I SOUGHT the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles. Psalm 34:5-6 ESV
Insight
In 2020, my wife and I found ourselves wrestling with two of our children sharing significant questions and doubts about their faith. They struggled to see how God fit into their lives. This news shook us; we worried and questioned whether we had failed in raising our kids. Yet, instead of seeking God amid the tension, we relied upon our strength and ability to be "better" parents.
I brought all these emotions with me into the personal retreat. During the time of reflection the retreat provides, the Holy Spirit convicted me about worries and fears I continued to hold on to and let influence my thoughts. At the time, those fears centered on my children and their faith. God reminded me to look to Him while reading my favorite chapter of the book of Psalms - Psalm 34 - specifically, verse 4.
I felt God saying that if I sought Him, I would find the rest I needed to drop the burdens I was carrying, leading me to choose SOUGHT as my Word for 2021. Rather than react to my children’s struggles or trying to “fix” them, God encouraged me to simply love them as they processed their walk with Him, which is easier said than done.
This is why I constantly return to King David's words captured in Psalm 34 - words he spoke while alone and in exile. No matter how often I read this verse, it still moves me. God hears us when we seek Him earnestly. He will answer us and deliver us from ALL those fearful thoughts that have the power to hold us captive - what a promise from our great and loving God.
As I look back on the impact SOUGHT had on my heart, I can see how it helped reorient my focus when fear attempted to distract and discourage me. I wish I could tell you that 2021 went smoothly, but there were still times I reverted to relying on my strength. But, in those moments, I got to experience the beauty of God's grace and His reminder to seek Him in all situations, both good and bad. Call on Him, and He will hear and deliver you from all your troubles.
Reflection
What do you do when you're afraid? Who or what do you rely on when fear overwhelms you?
What is God saying to you about the concerns currently holding you captive? How can you seek God and trust Him amid your fear?
Prayer
Lord, thank you that You hear us when we pray. In our moments of fear, You are with us. When fear attempts to paralyze us, may we instead walk in faith. Thank you for Your Word that always directs us to seek You. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
Mel Atento, Facilities and Safety Manager of the Wilmington Campus, wrote today's devotional.