Sunday, April 13, 2014

Psalm 18 – Waves of adversity and God’s deliverance

Have you ever been caught in the waves of life’s adversities?
lifeinthewaves
In Psalm 18 David expresses his Love for God and profound appreciation for God’s deliverance from oppressive and life threatening enemies that assaulted him like powerful waves.  He uses a number of picturesque analogies in describing his relationship with God.  He says, “The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold (vs.2).   He then exclaims, “I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies” (vs.3).

In your waves of adversity, are you calling upon the LORD?

In your trials of life, do you recognize God as worthy of praise?

If you have called upon God and offered praise in the darkest moments of your life, no doubt you have a testimony of God’s deliverance to share! Will you share it in a way that reflects God’s gifting in your life?  Not everyone is a poet like David who sets his verse to music.  Maybe you can share your story in a small group, paint or draw a picture, or write in a card or blog post a testimony of praise to God that will encourage others.  How will you share a testimony of God’s help in you life?

Last week I was asked to minister at a memorial service and found myself way to emotional to be of much help.  I called on God for help, praised Him in my heart, and felt the strengthening grace of God fill me to minister in ways beyond my own ability.  God is my Rock when I am weak!  He is worthy to be praised!
Sleels
During my trip to help my friend, I had the opportunity to view and walk along the Oregon beach.  I picked up a small stone, shell, and piece of driftwood for each of my three oldest grandchildren.  These treasures were more beautiful because they had been buffeted by the waves.  Are not our lives more lovely when we receive the grace of God during the polishing waves of life’s adversities?
FredOregoncoastcrop