Proper 13 (Ps) August 4th

Psalm 138:1-8

¹ I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart;

before the gods I sing your praise;

² I bow down toward your holy temple

and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness,

for you have exalted above all things

your name and your word.

³ On the day I called, you answered me;

my strength of soul you increased.

⁴ All the kings of the earth shall give you thanks, O Lord,

for they have heard the words of your mouth,

⁵ and they shall sing of the ways of the Lord,

for great is the glory of the Lord.

⁶ For though the Lord is high, he regards the lowly,

but the haughty he knows from afar.

⁷ Though I walk in the midst of trouble,

you preserve my life;

you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies,

and your right hand delivers me.

⁸ The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me;

your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.

Do not forsake the work of your hands.

All of us walk through troubled times. It does not matte whether you are facing the death of a friend or family member. It does not matter whether you are facing a terminal diagnosis. Even if you are facing a bully at school or at work. We are all walking through troubled times. Each day of our lives we face different troubles and struggles.

In all times and in all places we give thanks to the LORD. We give thanks to his Holy Name. The Lord God still regards all of you who are walking through troubled times. His steadfast love and faithfulness is with you. The Lord has a plan and purpose for you, just as he did for all those who have come before you. His plan is no different for any person struggling with troubles.

It may be difficult when we are looking for healing or strength. But God fulfills his purpose for you in Christ’s death and resurrection. He claims the victory over death. He promises to never forsake the work of his hands. He did not forsake Christ to the grave. He will not forsake you in the grave. He will raise you from death and provide you with eternal life.

God will fulfill his purpose for you, when he raises you to new life on the Last day. God will not forsake you.

Let us Pray

Almighty and everlasting God, give us an increase of faith, hope, and love, that, receiving what You have promised, we may love what You have commanded; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.