Gaining Abundant Peace

Psalm 37:1-11
Do not fret because of evildoers,
Nor be envious of the workers of iniquity.
For they shall soon be cut down like the grass,
And wither as the green herb.

Trust in the Lord, and do good;
Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.
Delight yourself also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord,
Trust also in Him,
And He shall bring it to pass.
He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
And your justice as the noonday.

Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;
Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,
Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass.
Cease from anger, and forsake wrath;
Do not fret -- it only causes harm.

For evildoers shall be cut off;
But those who wait on the Lord,
They shall inherit the earth.
For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more;
Indeed, you will look diligently for his place,
But it shall be no more.
But the meek shall inherit the earth,
And shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

Each one of us has a tendency to look at those of the world and to be drawn to their prosperity. We may find ourselves imitating their ways that we, too, may gain wealth or renown. The psalmist calls them "workers of iniquity," and because God knows their end, He kindly warns us against joining ourselves with them.

Instead of fretting, which causes extreme uneasiness in our spirits, the Lord encourages us to look ahead in faith. He then commands us to rest in Him and be patient. Yes, it is a command. This contentment will lead to a secure place where He promises to care for us.

Again, we are looking at more ways that might have made us to be conformed to this world. Remember, deception is a lie that has blind-sided us. It is subtle and camouflaged as truth. Have you picked up the habit of fretting over others? Do you realize that as a result you have become discontent with your own life? Allow the light of God's Word to shine as you examine your situation.

Prayerfully, commit your way to the Lord and trust Him. Commit your way to the One Who loves you with perfect love. Ask your Heavenly Father for His abundant peace and be wholly at rest in Him.

May you know deep joy as you delight in your Lord.

Love, Karen