September 9, 2021 — Psalm 119:89–176

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I have sworn an oath and confirmed it, to observe your righteous ordinances. I am severely afflicted; give me life, O Lord, according to your word. Accept my offerings of praise, O Lord, and teach me your ordinances. I hold my life in my hand continually, but I do not forget your law. The wicked have laid a snare for me, but I do not stray from your precepts. Your decrees are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart.I incline my heart to perform your statutes forever, to the end. I hate the double-minded, but I love your law. You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” Psalm 119:105-114

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I have sworn…to observe your righteous ordinances.” There are many reasons why people suffer in this world. Sometimes it is because of our own poor choices. Other times it is because of the things that people do to us. And finally, suffering can come for no reason at all. In all circumstances in life, if we are steeped in the word of Jesus Christ and the Wisdom of the prophets in the Old Testament, then the word will be a lamp to our feet – for it will guide us in the ways of this life. Yes, we will not always be able to stay on the path – because there are so many things looking to lead us astray. But when we are suffering, we need to have some idea that someone has our back – and I am here to tell you, G-d always has your back.

Do you consider yourself to be “severely afflicted”, as the Psalmist claims?  Have you ever suffered significantly in body, mind or spirit? Do you consider yourself a servant?  What does the servant life look like and does it always include suffering? With so much suffering in the world, we need to remember that G-d does not cause or expect us to suffer – G-d just wants our love and devotion.

Let Us Pray,

Lord, we pray for all who are suffering in mind, body or spirit today. Help us to be instruments of your love, mercy and grace. Amen.

Pastor Dave