Before we start reading today, ask God to reveal something new about himself to you. We will be reading Proverbs chapter 5 and Psalm chapters 21-25.
-Read Scripture-
A couple of days ago, we talked about why God rebukes, disciplines, and corrects us. Yesterday we looked at our innate desire to rebel against authority and that the only TRUE freedom is found under God's authority. Today we are going to look at the collateral damage of rebellion, and that no matter what dark place you find yourself in, it's never too late to cry out to God for help.
It's very hard when you watch someone you love rebel. Being the oldest of 3 other siblings and having worked with my husband in student ministry for over 7 years, I have much experience with this. You see the path they are on and the danger ahead, but it is not until they are swimming in their consequences that they call out or want help. Of course, this is applicable for us and the people around us. People see us heading down a road, and we don't want help until the inevitable rock bottom. It's hard to watch. So imagine our heavenly father, having to watch us swim out too deep, knowing at any moment, we could be overcome with irrevocable consequences.
"Mark well that GOD doesn't miss a move you make; he's aware of every step you take. The shadow of your sin will overtake you; you'll find yourself stumbling all over yourself in the dark." Proverbs 5:22-23 The Message
This is why God steps in to course correct, he understands the consequences before we do. This is why we should be grateful when he steps in, because he is most likely saving us from certain drowning. The biggest, most important thing to get out of today is that it is NEVER too late to call to God. You are never out of his reach, no matter how low you are.
I love King David. He was a shepherd, a King, an adulterer, a murderer, but he was a man after God's own heart. David had experienced almost every high and every low imaginable. In every peak, he praised God, and in every valley, he cried out to him for salvation & rescue. Even after his affair and murder cover-up, God restored David due to his genuine humility and cry of repentance.
Psalm chapter 23 is some of the most famous and recalled scripture of all time. "Yea, through I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for you are with me..." Psalm 23:4 NKJ But I want to share with you another version of that passage. Sometimes, when you've heard something your whole life said the same way, you don't really HEAR it anymore. It just bounces through your head and doesn't stick. (At least that is what happens to me.) And I truly want these verses to stick!
"Even in the unending shadows of death's darkness, I am not overcome by fear. Because you are with me in those dark moments, near with your protection and guidance, I am comforted." Psalm 23:4 The Voice.
Jesus forgave the thief on the cross dying next to him. We have already established David's rap sheet. It's never too late to ask God for help. He's never out of reach. The power of Christ can light any dark place, he can rescue you from any stormy sea or any dark valley you may find yourself.
Abba,
Thank you for caring about us enough to never leave us. Thank you for your patience with us. Thank you for your redemption. I pray that we accept your tough love in our lives as what it truly is: grace. That you see what we can't, you see the consequences that lay ahead. That we trust you to lead us. Thank you that no matter how far we wander, no matter how dark a place we may find ourselves, you are able and willing to rescue us and set us at your table. That is immeasurable love. Thank you for lifting us up so that we can stand tall and look you straight in the eye. We love you and desire to honor you with our lives today.
Amen
