Fearless in Sickness - Day 6

(This is part of a series of devotionals for use during coronavirus quarantine. You can download the devotional guide here.)

Scripture Reading: Psalm 34:11-22

Reflection

There is a tension we must confront whenever we feel God’s hand heavy on our necks. On the one hand, we are saved by His grace. He pardons our sins and welcomes us in Jesus Christ. On the other hand, it is true that at times troubles fall on us as a chastisement. Whether individually or collectively, we must recognize that the evils of this world are a result of human sin. Hardship should call us to turn from disobedience and fall before the Lord, confessing our sins.

At the same time, after we have done this, we must proclaim the gospel to ourselves and stand firm in the righteousness Christ gives. Repentance will not end our afflictions, but they will change our position in relation to them. We will not be brought low by trials but rather strengthened. Our lives will be redeemed and even their hard chapters will be used by God for good. When God’s discipline brings repentance, we ought to rejoice because that unleashes in us the first glimmerings of glory.

A Prayer of Societal Repentance

Father,

We have sinned. Personally, and also as a country and world. We have not sought You above all things. We have worshipped idols. We have forsaken the least of these. We have done all sorts of evil, and we justly deserve Your wrath.

We confess these sins, and we pray that You would work to draw us to the grace of Your salvation. Turn from discipline. Give us mercy. Forgive us, and let us declare Your forgiveness to the nations. We pray this all in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

AMEN

A Hymn