If my people…Day 33

The definition of satisfied, according to Merriam – Webster, is “having a happy or pleased feeling because of something that you did or something that happened to you; completely certain or sure about something.” When I look around me, I have a feeling of satisfaction in how I have worked with my hubby to keep our relationship loving over the past 43 years. I am satisfied with how we have raised our children into Christian adults. And I am satisfied with the choices I have made in my career. These are things I have done that I am satisfied with; just as the definition states.

What I am not always satisfied with is the way I think about others. Sometimes I get angry with how people act and speak when I should be trying to see things from their perspective. And sometimes I let that anger grow into judgmental words that I can’t take back. This is not how to save America.

Today’s verse reminds me of how precious it is to live in God’s lovingkindness. How safe it is to trust in the shadow of God’s wings. And how abundantly satisfying it is to live in God’s presence. This is where my first focus should be. When I hear someone condemning all police for the actions of the few, instead of feeling anger toward that person, why can’t I look at why they feel the way they do? There is injustice all around us; there is pain that I can’t even understand in my part of God’s world. And that is why I must think, and seek to know, how my brothers and sisters feel. My actions and my words may be what helps that one person see Jesus in their situation and eases their pain. Or…my actions and my words could be what adds fuel to the fire.

We are so blessed to live in a country where we can speak freely. With that freedom comes responsibility. We must be satisfied with our every action and our every word and that means being completely sure and certain about the truth of each situation before we speak or act. Together we can bring America to the fountain of life by living in Christ and speaking His words. We must take time to pray for what satisfies us as Americans and measure that by the illumination of God.

Lord, Your lovingkindness is new every day. May we forever trust in You with all our hearts and find rest in the shelter of Your love. The very life we live comes from You alone. Bless us, O Lord, with the light of Your presence and place within us the desire to share Your light so that others may come to know the saving grace of our Lord and Savior. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

“If my people who are called by my Name humble themselves, and pray, and seek my Face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”  2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV