Today’s verses appear in a chapter titled “Confidence in a Time of Crisis” in the translation I’m reading right now. How can I have confidence in the midst of a crisis? I think today’s two verses sum up the answer quite nicely. Actually either one would work as they basically say the same thing. The answer is to contemplate God. His character in the past will be His character tomorrow. His mighty works of the past demonstrate what He can easily accomplish in the future if that is His will. The ways He loved His people in ancient times is proof of His love for me today. The author of today’s verses was probably mostly referring to the wonders God preformed to bring the Israelites out from slavery in Egypt. I can gain confidence in God’s faithfulness by reading and reflecting on those events. But I can also easily apply these verses more personally. God has worked wonders in my own life. A particular period when I was really struggling comes to mind. I was working way too much. I was miserable and had no life other than work. But I couldn’t see a way out. I had to pay rent after all. I prayed to God desperately. I wanted to die. But one day I heard God say, “Camille, you don’t need to die right now. Just quit your job.” I replied with many excuses. How would I pay my bills? What would become of me? Who would I be? What would I do?! God said, “Try me and you’ll see. Do you trust me?” Reluctantly, I eventually agreed. Well, actually I was such a chicken that first I took a leave of absence. But then I quit. With my new free time I did spend time studying my Bible every day. And I started to remember what I used to enjoy doing. After some months though I figured I needed to come up with a way to pay my bills as my savings were dwindling. I prayed for the job God wanted for me. Instead, he provided a surprising way for me to live without rent! At church, a couple announced they would be taking a job overseas. They ended up offering their home for me to live in for free while they were away. What a miracle. I ended up living there for a couple of years! Then when they were returning, I again prayed to God for whatever was next. I didn’t know if it would be a job. I didn’t want to limit God, ha! Just then, out of the blue, someone on my soccer team announced that their friend was taking a job out of state but had just bought a house. They needed someone to house sit long term. The timing worked out perfectly. Another free living situation. This went on until I married someone who owned their own home. God worked miracles in my life and proved Himself faithful, trustworthy, loving, generous, powerful, clever, funny, and wonderful! When I am worried, like in today’s verses I can meditate on God’s wonders and have confidence in a time of crisis.
Dear God,
Thank you so much for showing me how much you love me and for teaching me how to trust you. Thank you for giving me the courage to step out in faith and for overwhelming me with your blessings when I did. Remind me of your past works and wonders when I am worried or afraid. You are God and you never change.
CamDevo 