Central Truth

"Sometimes He calms the storm; With a whispered peace be still; He can settle any sea; But it doesn't mean He will" - Scott Krippayne

Reflections

Lately, my work has been difficult and I find myself wishing for a change that will relieve the pressure. I want to feel better. I don't want to be stressed and wake up each morning discouraged about having to go to work. I find my prayer being "please God, fix this".

These Psalms that David writes are reminders that God uses the difficult things in our lives to shape our character. In 16:5 he says, "The LORD is the portion of my inheritance and my cup; you support my lot." He is all we need, even when we feel like what we need is for Him to fix the situation. This is a great teachable moment to learn to trust in Him.

Also, don't miss the fact that he supports your lot. When I read this, I see that He has a hand in where I am. I'm not there by mistake. It's where he has me in life at that moment. Don't miss His purpose in this.

David takes this further in verse 6 by saying '"The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; indeed my heritage is beautiful to me." In other words, no matter what, remember how good God has been to you. Yes, my work is weighing heavily on me, but I am blessed beyond what I ever expected or deserve. Remembering this helps keep things in perspective.

I don't know what your "lot" is in life, but if you find yourself in a spot where you feel overwhelmed, stressed, and pressured, I encourage you to not give in to despair. In my struggles with my job, God has taught me to start every day trusting in Him. When you have days where you feel like you just can't do it, that is the perfect time to come before Him and say, "God, without you I can't do it." That's where he wants us. Also, remember the good things He has done for you. Name them out loud or write them down. Don't forget to include the storm on that list.

Discussion Questions

1. I love music, and when I think about storms in our lives, I think of this song. Enjoy.
- Music: http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=J291CJNU
- Lyrics: http://www.gatherlittlebylittle.com/2008/01/sunday-lyrics-sometimes-he-calms-the-storm/

2. If you are going through a storm right now, find somebody to talk with about it. Schedule some weekly time with them.

3. Make a list of all the good things God has done for you. Read it often, meditate on it, and keep it up to date.