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Hear the devo: https://bit.ly/3ZFpzfo
View here: https://bit.ly/4dkKpUk
1 If the LORD had not been on our side— let Israel say— 2 if the LORD had not been on our side when people attacked us, 3 they would have swallowed us alive when their anger flared against us; 4 the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us, 5 the raging waters would have swept us away. 6 Praise be to the LORD, who has not let us be torn by their teeth. 7 We have escaped like a bird from the fowler’s snare; the snare has been broken, and we have escaped. 8 Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. (Psalm 124 NIV Bible)
It's nice to remember, no, it's essential to remember the times that God has been with us when we needed Him the most. I have lost count, but not any of the gratitude for God blessing me and my loved ones in instances that I can only say were miraculous. Many were the times I would have been dead or seriously injured had God not stepped in with His unexplainable ways.
The same can be said about Israel and maybe you as well. This passage is a powerful reminder of God’s unwavering presence in our lives, especially during times of trouble. The psalmist reflects on moments of peril, recognizing that if it weren’t for the Lord's protection, we would have been overwhelmed by our challenges. The imagery of a bird escaping a snare powerfully illustrates how God frees us from situations that seek to ensnare us. The graphic selected for the print version shows a wonderful depiction of "our escaping from a fowler's snare; the snare has been broken, and we have escaped." I add "!!!!"
Take a moment to consider your own life. What challenges or adversities have you faced where you can now see God’s hand at work? Perhaps it was a difficult season at work, a health crisis, or relational strife. In hindsight, how has God been your refuge and strength?
When we recognize that our help comes from the Lord, we cultivate a spirit of gratitude and confidence. This acknowledgment shifts our perspective, allowing us to see challenges not as insurmountable obstacles but as opportunities to experience God’s deliverance.
PRAYER: Loving and awesome God, thank You for always being by our side, even when we face trials that seem overwhelming. We praise You for the times You have delivered us and for the ways You continue to protect us. Help us to trust in Your strength and to remember that our help comes from You alone. May we find peace in Your presence and courage to face whatever lies ahead. In Jesus’ wonderful name, we pray, Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Consider journaling these experiences or sharing them with a friend or family member. Let your testimony be a source of encouragement to others, reminding them that no challenge is too great when the Lord is on our side.
I love you and I thank God for you!
Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.
