SOAP: He pulls us out of the ick when we need it

Scripture: Psalm 40: 1-3

¹I waited patiently for the Lord;

he turned to me and heard my cry.

²He lifted me out of the slimy pit,

and out of  the mud and mire;

he set my feet on a rock

and gave me a firm place to stand.

³He put a new song in my mouth,

a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see and fear

and put their trust in the Lord.

Observation: I was in a bad place and waited patiently for the Lord to save me and take me from there. He did and gave me a new foundation and a better outlook. This has caused me to share my experience and his goodness so others will see and come to appreciate his power as well.

Application: Sometimes I feel like I’m near that pit of despair. Earlier this week I was wallowing in frustration, unhappiness and a lot of self-doubt.

It is so reassuring to know that our God is a god who loves us and wants us to turn to him in those moments and chapters. He wants us to cry out to him and wait patiently for him to come to our aid. He wants to know that we are relying on him… and he wants us to know that, as well.

I am so thankful that he cares for me and loves me. And, although it may be painful at times, I am thankful that he wants me to really understand who is in control. And that would be Him.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for never leaving my side. Thank you for standing by me even in times of despair (big despair and little frustration). Thank you for reminding me that you will pull me out of the ick and give me a firm place to stand when I really need one.

Thank you, Lord, for loving each and every one of your children and for coming to our aid in just the way that you know is best.

When I am feeling abandoned and lost, frustrated and confused, please bring me back to this word from you so that I will remember that you are in control. And you will give me just what I need.

Thank you, Lord.