How Can I Avoid Suffering and Other Lies I Have Chosen to Believe – Psalm 34:15-22

/ Anthea Kotlan / Leave a comment

If I am being honest, I love a good checklist. A clear path lined out for me, revealing what was right to do and what to avoid. I want to know deep in my soul that if I get the boxes checked off in proper order and complete all items before the deadline, all will go well and be pleasant. I would also like this to be true for those I love.

However, it is a lie. One I have loved and circled back to my whole life. It is the worst kind of a lie because it is antithetical to the Gospel. It places a good outcome within my reach if I only tried harder and got everything done correctly. When a negative situation arrives, like an unwelcome houseguest, it sends me searching to find out who is to blame. Who didn’t check all those boxes or complete the necessary steps? Was a deadline missed?

Assigning Blame

Assigning blame creates comfortable distance and an element of perceived control. If I forget to pay the electric bill, it makes sense that my electricity will be cut-off. It is no longer random. It is within my control to prevent that negative outcome from happening again.

This is the life that I want. The one where I can exert control over all outcomes and carefully sidestep suffering or affliction for me and those I love. But that kind of life is an illusion.

When suffering and affliction arrive and unpack a suitcase in my guest room intending to stay long term, and eviction is beyond my power, what can I do?  

How can I remain fully present when suffering and affliction keep company with those I love?

In this final section of Psalm 34:15-22, David reminds me to remember what is true about the LORD.

15 The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous, and his ears toward their cry.
16 The face of the LORD is against those who do evil, to cut off the memory of them from the earth.
(Psalm 34:15-16 ESV)

The Lord’s Presence

The LORD sees and hears our suffering. He does not turn away or become weary of hearing our cries.

Because the LORD is fully present in suffering situations, He can help me do this too. He is there with my loved one in the hospital, in surgery, in a counseling session, and in all of the places of brokenness and isolation.

I am not required to solve the problem and/or offer endless advice to fill the awkward spaces between me and those I love who are suffering. Being willing to offer the ministry of presence is enough and very likely infinitely more helpful than my own handy solutions.

The LORD also knows about those who choose to do evil, and He is bringing justice. The LORD carries the burden of bringing justice to wrongdoers. In the middle of suffering, I don’t have to assign blame or seek out the wrongdoers. This burden of justice is not mine to carry.  

17 When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.
18 The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.
(Psalm 34:17-18 ESV)

Verses 17 and 18 remind me that the Lord hears my cries and delivers me out of my troubles. The LORD promises to be near the brokenhearted and the crushed in spirit. Grief and suffering will come my way.

What do I deserve?

The prosperity gospel has permeated so much of Christian culture. A sense of entitlement has settled in and become part of daily life. I am encouraged to believe I deserve my best life now, but I don’t.

Suffering in this life is not a matter of if; it is a matter of when. I will have my heart broken and my spirit crushed in this troubled world. When I do, the LORD promises to be near to me. He promises His comforting presence, not an escape.

19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.
20 He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken.
21 Affliction will slay the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be condemned.
(Psalm 34:19-21 ESV)

What does deliverance look like?

The righteous will be delivered, but it might look different from what I expect. Perhaps deliverance looks more like a delay in my schedule because God doesn’t want me to miss out on something He has been keeping for me till I am ready. Or deliverance might be the loss of something I loved because the LORD knows what I need and loves me too much to let me keep something that will damage me.

While there will be deliverance for the righteous, there will also be many afflictions. Sometimes that seems more than I can bear because it is. I will continue to need the LORD to carry me through.

22 The LORD redeems the life of his servants; none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned.
(Psalm 34:22 ESV)

The promise of redemption works as a life jacket and gives me hope. I may find myself on the open sea, in a small boat, in the middle of a large storm, yet He renews, redeems, and provides refuge by holding me tight.

A Prayer for a Sufferer

Lord, when a season of suffering and affliction weighs me down, help me to seek you and your refuge first. Help me avoid the trap of assigning blame. Help me to be willing to sit in my own suffering or to sit with those who need me to be willing to show up and keep company with them. Still my tongue from offering advice, when it is merely designed to fill the awkward space. Help me to see the ways you are offering me deliverance, even when it is not what I expect. Thank you that you are near and hear my cries. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Can Fearing the Lord Reduce my Anxiety? Psalm 34b

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Some families pass down an inheritance of precious jewelry while others share treasured recipes written on weathered cards. Other families gift each generation with stocks or bonds. Some families even pass the ownership of a family business to the next generation.

Sadly, my family held on to the tradition of passing down a legacy of anxiety for the last few generations. Fears about finances, betrayal, and mental health were regularly stoked in my family of origin. Each child was guided down a well-worn path of anticipating worst-case scenarios. Criticism and judgment loomed largely at any gathering. In recent years, I have pursued Christian counseling to begin to dismantle the habits of anxiety in my own life.

In the second section of Psalm 34, the Lord offers a lesson on the fear of the LORD through His servant David.  

11 Come, O children, listen to me;  I will teach you the fear of the LORD.
(Psalm 34:11 ESV)

What if cultivating the fear and reverence of the Lord is an antidote for anxiety?

In my mind’s eye, I can see the Lord inviting me to draw near to Him and sit down. He wants to gather His people close and give us a gift if we will only slow down long enough to listen to His counsel. My anxiety dissipates when I choose to fear and revere the Lord and not obsess about my worries and concerns.

12 What man is there who desires life and loves many days, that he may see good?
13 Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceitfully.
14 Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
(Psalm 34:12-14 ESV)

He begins with rhetorical questions in verse 12.

Do you want to live a long life?  

Do you want to see good?

On any given day, everyone would likely answer yes to both questions. Even tucked into the second question is a nugget of precious guidance. Someone who wishes to live long and prosper, what does he or she see? Good

Do I look for the goodness of the Lord daily?  

What if looking for the goodness of God actually allows me to find it? What if failing to do so causes me more significant anxiety?

The second piece of wisdom is found in verse 13. Can I keep my lips from evil and lies? I might very quickly say, yes, of course. I won’t lie. However, on any given day, do I speak negatively about others who are made in His image? My words reflect my heart’s attitude. The ones I speak to others and the ones I speak over myself.

Recently, I was spending time with someone who regularly and fluently speaks about God’s goodness and His people’s goodness. I mentioned a mutual friend, and her immediate response was to say, “I just love her.” Her declaration immediately pointed the conversation in a positive direction leaving no room for criticism or complaint.

Do I speak of the goodness of the Lord and His people on a daily basis?

Verse 14 challenges me to consider where I am giving my attention. The Lord advises me to turn away from evil and do good.

In a 24-hour news-saturated society, turning away from evil becomes increasingly difficult. Stories of the evil deeds of man compete for our attention. At times, the depravity of man has become a competitive sport. News outlets compete to showcase evil on repeat.  This leaves the impression that crime rates are skyrocketing and the world is overrun with violence. Is that accurate?

Within my lifetime, I have observed a tremendous societal change. Now that news services are running at all hours of the night and day, more stories must be created to fill that air time. With increasing global connectivity, we can access reports about crime all over the world that we didn’t have access to just a few decades ago. Is there actually an increase in evil in the world today? Or are we racing to highlight it at every turn?

News headlines shared on social media are cleverly crafted to draw readers in to click on the story and learn more grisly details. I have fallen into this trap myself.

What would it look like if anytime any of us heard about evil, we chose to do something good? What if anytime I listened to a story of evil, I decided to tell a story about God’s people doing good?

Am I listening to stories of the goodness of the Lord and His work through His people, or am I focused on a showcase of evil?

Do I seek peace daily? In The Message version of verse 14, Eugene Peterson chose to use the phrase, “embracing peace.” Imagine for a moment the image of that. What would it look like to become more intimately familiar with peace? To keep company with it regularly? How could I go and spend time in peaceful places regularly? Could I sit outside for five or fifteen minutes and watch the clouds go by? Remembering the Lord is the one who moves the earth and the sky. Knowing He holds it all together ushers peace into my soul.

Do I pursue peace so I can understand the goodness of the Lord?

Spending time in peaceful places is a proven strategy to reduce anxiety. Being outside can help reset our nervous system exhausted by remaining on high alert for so long. If the weather does not permit spending time in nature, seeking out a sacred space such as a chapel would also provide a brief respite. Even a museum filled with glorious art could be a place where we can embrace peace. Sometimes a peaceful physical location is not possible, so taking a 5-minute break listening to music with your eyes closed could be an excellent opportunity to reset.

Where do you take time daily to embrace peace?

Finally, it seems that anxiety in our society may be at epidemic levels. I hear about it everywhere I go. How about you? How do you handle anxiety in yourself or others? What is the Lord revealing to you in all of this?

A Prayer for an Anxious Heart and Mind

Lord, we long to see and experience your goodness every single day. Please help us, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to cultivate reverence and worship you with our lives. Please help us to keep our tongues from speaking evil. Please help us to tell about your goodness and talk about your people in ways that build up and encourage. Please help us to turn away from evil and constantly seek to see and experience your goodness. Lord, show us how to embrace and pursue Your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

How do I seek God in the Dark of the Night? Psalm 34a

/ Anthea Kotlan / Leave a comment

Perhaps there is some time-space continuum operating in the dark of the night? Bear with me for a moment, but if you have ever had trouble sleeping, you might know what I mean. What about gazing at the digital clock at 2 am that causes time to slow down to a crawl? The minutes creep by, and yet sleep does not arrive. Maybe, you start trying to figure out how much sleep you could still get before the alarm goes off at 6, but strangely these calculations only make it worse.

And just as you roll over again and try to get comfortable, you remember something urgent that you might have forgotten. Did I answer that critical email? Did I send in the check this month? Did I order the shipment, so it gets here on time? Once these concerns begin to roll out, they gain momentum. Train cars buckled together, pulling more of the “to-do list“ items down a steep track toward derailment.

Praising God in these moments is the last thing on my mind.

In the dark of night, before the dawn
My soul, be not afraid
For the promised morning, oh how long
Oh God of Jacob, be my strength

We will feast in the house of Zion
We will sing with our hearts restored
He has done great things, we will say together
We will feast and weep no more

Every vow we’ve broken and betrayed
You are the faithful One
And from the garden to the grave
Bind us together, bring shalom

“We Will Feast in the Zion” by Sandra McCracken

There is something gloriously defiant about this song because it challenges me to praise God in the dark of night. Even when I break vows and make mistakes, this song points to the future feast for every believer and calls us to praise God for the glorious future ahead. It is a glimpse into the ultimate banquet with Jesus in the heavenly realms when everyone and everything will be made right.

In Psalm 34, David seeks to praise God after a very dark night. 

1I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
2 My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad.
3 Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together!
(Psalm 34:1-3 ESV)

What does it look like to repeatedly praise God in the dark of the night?

A family member of mine is struggling in a season of suffering. I’ve noticed how the more she repeats her complaints and aggravations, the more frustrated she becomes. Honestly, this can be a familiar way for me to handle frustration. Am I repeating the negativity to anyone who will listen in the name of venting?

What if I chose to take a break from that and intentionally praise the Lord?

Could I make a list of thanksgivings?

Could I boast about the Lord and share those words with friends and family?

Am I telling stories of praise in the dark of the night, or am I repeating my persecutions?

4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.
5 Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.
(Psalm 34:4-5 ESV)

In the dark of the night, if I seek Him and look to His face, will I begin to reflect the light of His radiance? What if I declared a promise like Psalm 34:4 over myself in those difficult moments?  

In the dark of the night, I will seek the Lord, who will answer me and deliver me from all my fears.

6 This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.
7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.
(Psalm 34:6-7 ESV)

In the dark of the night, what if I take a moment to picture those angels the Lord has encamped around me?

Even when I can’t see what God is doing in the spiritual realms, could I ask the Holy Spirit to let me catch a glimpse?  

8 Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
9 Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack!
10 The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.
(Psalm 34:8-10 ESV)

Can I remember whom the LORD says I am in the dark of the night?

  • His saint
  • One who lacks nothing
  • One who can take refuge in Him
  • One who can taste and see His goodness

As one redeemed in Christ Jesus, I am a saint—not based on getting it all right but because my identity comes from the Lord. I will lack nothing that I need, and the Lord will always provide refuge for me to run to and rest.  

Today, I will choose to seek the one who knows my soul and loves me so deeply. In seeking Him, He will be found, and I will be changed forever.

What Am I Called to Share? Psalm 22:22-31

/ Anthea Kotlan / Leave a comment

I spent Sunday afternoon and evening in an emergency room with an elderly family member. God showed up in the kindness of pre-warmed sheets, wrapping us in care. As the hours inched passed, all reports and test results provided much-needed reassurance. Finally, long after sundown, the doctor graciously wrote prescriptions to relieve the most troubling symptoms. We left grateful and giving thanks for a good outcome but worn out in the waiting.

Keeping company with affliction wears heavy on the mind, body, and soul.

Psalm 22 takes the reader on a journey from the opening lines of anguish and isolation on the cross to this final section (verses 22-31) of hope-filled praise in the assembly with the family of believers. Worship and testimonies overflow and alter the atmosphere. However, the Lord still acknowledges suffering, and He never turns away from the afflicted.

22 I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you:
23 You who fear the LORD, praise him! All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him, and stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel!
24 For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, and he had not hidden his face from him but has heard when he cried to him. 
(Psalm 22:22-24 ESV)

Testimonies

We are called to share our stories of God’s faithfulness. These stories must be communicated in spaces and places where believers can encourage one another. Our testimonies bring glory to God. Just as suffering can way us down, sharing praise reports in the assembly uplifts us. The examples of God’s faithfulness lift us onto our feet, and our hands are raised to praise Him.

Affliction

Even as we are joining together to give God praise, He reminds us about how He does not turn away from our suffering. Verse 24 says that God hears us, God sees us, and He does not turn away from our affliction. Because God does not turn away from our suffering, we must also be willing to keep company with the afflicted. This call to action cannot be accomplished in our strength. We can draw near to some of the most challenging situations by asking the Holy Spirit to strengthen us. In a society that so often refuses to see, hear or acknowledge suffering, believers have a sacred obligation to be fully present with suffering and the affliction of those He calls us to love.

Keeping company with the afflicted causes us to face our weaknesses and our inability to fix things. No amount of positive thinking or affirmations can create adequate relief when our loved ones are suffering or if we are afflicted.

Who is God calling me to keep the company in a season of suffering?

25 From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will perform before those who fear him.
26 The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the LORD! May your hearts live forever!
(Psalm 22:25-26 ESV)

Praise

Verse 25 points to how our praise comes from God and is turned back to Him. We respond to God with praise and thanksgiving because He is the giver of all we have.  

Is it possible that the “great congregation,” verse 25 mentions, refers to the ultimate praise party we all will gather together for when Jesus returns to rule the earth? I believe the Lord kindly gives us previews of this ultimate praise party every time we gather with fellow believers for prayer and praise.

Verse 26 promises that those suffering and afflicted will experience future healing, nurturing, and satisfaction. There will be no lack in the new heaven and new earth.

27 All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations shall worship before you.
28 For kingship belongs to the LORD, and he rules over the nations.
29All the prosperous of the earth eat and worship; before him shall bow all who go down to the dust, even the one who could not keep himself alive.
(Psalm 22:27-29 ESV)

Every Tribe and Every Nation

All the families of the nations shall worship –every knee shall bow and worship King Jesus. God has called us to go to the ends of the earth to tell every tribe and nation of the good news of Jesus Christ. In the next fifteen years, Bible translation organizations worldwide are joining forces to translate the Bible into every language. People must hear the gospel in their mother tongue to know Jesus cares for them.

Verse 28 reminds us that, “Kingship belongs to the LORD.” He rules and has authority in my life and over the nations. Whether every tribe and nation acknowledge Him or not, He still rules. I know I need that reminder. Every single day the news trumpets all the chaos of this world. A steady diet of those headlines could lead us to give up hope. So how do we counter that?

For every minute spent watching the news, can I spend an equal amount reading my Bible?

30 Posterity shall serve him; it shall be told of the Lord to the coming generation;
31 they shall come and proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn,
    that he has done it.
(Psalm 22:30-31 ESV)

Stories To Be Told

The final verses of Psalm 22 proclaim the privilege we have. We will be honored to tell babies about what the Lord has done. My stories will be passed down from one generation to another. Ask the Lord about this “next generation.” How can you love them well? Who are the young women with young children God has placed around you? Do you have grandchildren to share stories with? Do you have nieces or nephews? Or grandnieces or nephews? Do you have neighbors with little ones? Has the Lord sent little ones who need to be loved well to your church?

What stories can you share of God’s faithfulness today? Who has God placed in your path? Who is in your sphere of influence?

He has done it….

Finally, the Lord reminds us that, “He has done it.”  

This psalm begins in the depth of despair and ends with a powerful reminder.

Are you talking about what the Lord has done?

Prayer

Lord, thank you that you have done it. You have done it all. Thank you that even when I don’t feel it, you rule. Send your Holy Spirit to help me tell others about you and be present in suffering with those I love. Thank you for the sacred calling of sharing both stories of goodness and Your grace in times of affliction. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

How do I sit with suffering? Psalm 22

/ Anthea Kotlan / Leave a comment

How does the world respond to suffering?

We medicate it.

We dismiss it.

We deny it.

We try to explain it away.

We even blame the victim sometimes.

Jesus has a different way of sitting with suffering.

Psalm 22 invites believers to sit at the foot of the cross with Jesus and bear witness to many aspects of His suffering. Each verse takes the reader deeper into His pain and isolation.

When I come so close to suffering, if I am being honest, I want to look away, fix it, or find a way to stop it. To lean in and be fully present with someone we love experiencing a storm of suffering is agony. I want to take three steps back and create some comfortable distance.

My heart and mind feel desperate to escape. It feels far too much for me to handle.

Jesus warned us about this.

33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
(John 16:33 ESV)

How does Jesus model “taking heart” while suffering?

He cries out to God.

He prays scripture aloud.

He speaks truthfully about His suffering.

He surrenders to God’s will on repeat.

He continues to look for His rescue.

Last week on the blog, I looked at the first part of Psalm 22 through the lens of Queen Esther. I examined the pain and isolation she must have felt when faced with an almost impossible decision to risk her life to save her people.

Where do I find God in a desperate situation? Psalm 22

Another way to look at Psalm 22 is to see it as a prophecy about Jesus’ death on the cross.

Psalm 22 fulfills many prophecies about the Messiah

Jesus quotes Psalm 22 from the cross.

Those who stood by watching would have recognized the text immediately. The bits and pieces of the text He shared would have brought the entire Psalm to their minds.

Psalm 22 begins with a haunting line,

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?
2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest.
(Psalm 22:1-2 ESV)

Jesus cries out to God

 

These words highlight the scene of Jesus hanging on the cross surrounded by a hostile crowd and knowing His death is near. His ordeal has included beatings, humiliation, and a barrage of accusations. He has willingly submitted Himself to this torture, motivated by a fierce and sacrificial love for each of us.

He prays scripture aloud

6 But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by mankind and despised by the people.
7 All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads;
8 “He trusts in the Lord; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!”
(Psalm 22:6-8 ESV)

Here Jesus describes the utter humiliation of being displayed before a crowd as an example of failure. In verse 8, Jesus even quotes some of the harshest things that were said as the crowd mocked Him for His belief in God. However, Jesus continues to cling fiercely and audibly to His belief.

He speaks truthfully about His suffering

9 Yet you are he who took me from the womb; you made me trust you at my mother's breasts.
10 On you was I cast from my birth, and from my mother's womb you have been my God.
11 Be not far from me, for trouble is near, and there is none to help.
(Psalm 22:9-11 ESV)

Jesus responds to the mocking of His belief in God by recounting his birth on Earth, from Mary’s womb, and His utter reliance on God. He expresses the agony of the impending but brief separation He is about to experience. He and God have always walked hand in hand, but now He faces a moment of separation as He can see His death is imminent.

12 Many bulls encompass me; strong bulls of Bashan surround me;
13 they open wide their mouths at me, like a ravening and roaring lion.
(Psalm 22:12-13 ESV)

Jesus speaks honestly about how desperate a state He is in. When He could have escaped this agony, He remained inside the suffering storm.

He surrenders to God’s will on repeat

14 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax;
    it is melted within my breast;
15 my strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to my jaws; you lay me in the dust of death.
(Psalm 22:14-15 ESV)

Jesus surrenders again and again to the Lord’s will as He pours His strength out and becomes weak.

16 For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet
(Psalm 22:16 ESV)

Jesus acknowledges His state of being. His honesty in the face of peril is real and raw.

17 I can count all my bones—they stare and gloat over me;
18 they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.
(Psalm 22:17-18 ESV)

In this moment of being stripped naked on the cross, Jesus’ humiliation is on display. The authorities give Him no room for dignity. God allows us to glimpse the devastating force of our sin.

Even His clothing, the last earthly objects Jesus could call His own, became something to be won by casting lots. The soldiers were operating in utter certainty of his impending death.

He continues to look for His rescue

19 But you, O LORD, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid!
20 Deliver my soul from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dog!
21 Save me from the mouth of the lion! You have rescued me from the horns of the wild oxen!
(Psalm 22:19-21 ESV)

Jesus cries aloud to the Lord before a watching crowd. Even in His desperation, He points to the only source of reliable help because He wants the world to know. Jesus had a direct line to His heavenly father, so speaking aloud would not have been necessary. And yet, He continues to narrate His journey so all will understand the destination He seeks. He wants to be near the Lord.

Sitting at the foot of the cross

Am I willing to lean in and be fully present with Jesus as He experiences a storm of suffering and agony in His final moments on the cross?

Take a few minutes today to ask Jesus what He wants you to know about this. In your own life, how do you respond to your suffering or the suffering of those you love? Are you willing to ask Him to show you how to sit with suffering?

Prayer

Jesus, what do you want me to know about suffering? Strengthen my soul to follow You, even in this. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Where do I find God in a desperate situation? Psalm 22

/ Anthea Kotlan / 3 Comments

The book of Esther opens with the swift and forced exit of Queen Vashti, followed by a country-wide search for a new Queen. The King selects a young Jewish orphan named Esther. Just as she is settling into palace life, an enemy of the Jewish people has cleverly manipulated the King to issue a royal edict calling for the murder of her people. Esther’s cousin, Mordecai, has begged her to go to the King. He warned her about the cost of her silence. However, she knows that speaking to the King without an invitation could result in her immediate death.

13 Then Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, "Do not think to yourself that in the King's palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. 14 For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:13-14 ESV)

Esther responded to Mordecai’s charge.

16 "Go, gather all the Jews to be found in Susa, and hold a fast on my behalf, and do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the King, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish." (Esther 4:16 ESV)

Have you ever faced such a difficult decision in your life? Of course, it is unlikely that most of us will face the threat of genocide; however, most of us will face difficult decisions made in rugged and isolated places.

Have you been asked to give up a dream or a great opportunity so that someone you love can pursue their goal?

Have you ever agreed to take on something painful or challenging because it was necessary?

Have you ever been called upon to advocate for someone who is suffering or in need of help?

For such a time as this…. What is God calling you to take on or take off in this season?

Sooner or later, we will all have to rely on our faith in God in a season of hardship. Do you find yourself in a time of difficulty? Or is someone you love walking through a season of suffering?

Psalm 22 was written as a psalm of lament by King David. God provides psalms in the Bible for us to process complicated and passionate feelings. There are psalms for lament or sadness, like this one. Psalms are designed to process anger, betrayal, thanksgiving, joy, and acceptance.

Psalm 22 is often called a prophetic psalm pointing to Jesus’ time on the cross. However, the Jewish people have a different perspective.

The Oral Torah states that King David wrote this Psalm in foreknowledge of the time of Hadassah, also known as Queen Esther.

What does this portion of Psalm 22 say about having faith amid hardship? Take a few minutes to read through this portion of the Psalm and see what the Lord has for you.

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?
2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest.
(Psalm 22:1-2 ESV)

Prayer

Lord, we thank you for being close by even in my suffering. Even when I cannot see or feel you, I will choose to believe you are still there. Thank you for hearing my hard questions and being willing to answer them in your perfect timing and perfect ways.

3 Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.
4 In you our fathers trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them.
5 To you they cried and were rescued; in you, they trusted and were not put to shame.
(Psalm 22: 3-5 ESV)

Lord, does how I feel about you, change who You are?

How do I counter the negative voice in my head?

Try reading a psalm of praise or thanksgiving. Then, try reading Psalm 145 or 146.

God is present in the praises of His people. What could you specifically praise God about today? For what could you give thanks?

What do I know is true about me? About God?

You are still on your throne even when it does not seem so. Lord, you have been faithful to generations before me. You are trustworthy to deliver over decades.

Take a moment to close your eyes and ask the Lord, what do you want me to know about you right now?

Prayer

Lord, I thank you for delivering those who went before me. Thank you for answering their prayers. Please help me give thanks and record how you rescued my people and me. Thank you for bringing redemption out of the worst situations. Please help me to see how you will do that for me. If I can’t see those solutions right now, help me to know that your rescue is not based on my understanding.

6 But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by mankind and despised by the people.
7 All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads;
8 "He trusts in the Lord; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!"
(Psalm 22:6-8 ESV)

Even when I feel like a worm or entirely worthless, these feelings I have do not define me. You say I am beloved, called, and cared for. Even when those around me mock me, Lord and You are still for me.

Take a moment to remember the times God has rescued you, delivered you, and delighted in you.

Prayer

Lord, help to recall times when you have delivered me. Could you help me make a list and give thanks? Fill my mind with examples of Your faithfulness. Help me trust and delight in You. Help me have courage and wisdom in all difficult decisions knowing You are right by my side. Amen

What’s Good? Psalm 21

/ Anthea Kotlan / 2 Comments

As I write this in October of 2022, Union Jack flags flutter in the breeze all over Britain. Many were first displayed in June to honor Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee and continue to testify of the queen’s longstanding popularity. After 75 years of faithful service, Queen Elizabeth died in September. I arrived in Manchester just a few days after the official mourning activities had been completed. As the plane touched down, I realized I had never been in the United Kingdom without having her on the throne.

Queen Elizabeth spoke fluently of her faith and often thanked those who prayed for her.  In fact, during her first Christmas address in 1952, a speech she carefully wrote herself each year, she boldly made this request,

“Pray for me … that God may give me wisdom and strength to carry out the solemn promises I shall be making, and that I may faithfully serve Him and you, all the days of my life.”

A Faithful Legacy

Queen Elizabeth dedicated her entire life to serving God and her country. She did so with grace and determination until her death. King David, the author of Psalm 21, served God and his country for much of his life. Both of these leaders continually recognized God as the one who set a crown upon their heads, and they both made a regular habit of honoring Him.

David wrote Psalm 21 as a celebration psalm following a time of war.

The King Rejoices in the Lord’s Strength

To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.

1 O Lord, in your strength the king rejoices, and in your salvation how greatly he exults!

2 You have given him his heart's desire and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah
(Psalm 21: 1-2 ESV)

What’s good?

Following the example in verse 1, how can I exult the Lord? Do I regularly celebrate what God is doing in my life? Do I share it with others?

Recently I heard a worship leader named Caleb Miller suggest that asking a new question of friends and family might cultivate a new attitude in our hearts. What if we asked everyone we saw what’s good?

Rather than the usual question, how are you? Asking about what good things you have witnessed lately could create a contagious attitude of gratitude.

David directs all the credit and honor to the Lord as the one who gives him strength and gives him his heart’s desires. If we could ask King David about what is good in his life, he would be ready to remember as he did in many of the Psalms.

Rich Blessings

3 For you meet him with rich blessings; you set a crown of fine gold upon his head.

4 He asked life of you; you gave it to him, length of days forever and ever.

5 His glory is great through your salvation; splendor and majesty you bestow on him.
(Psalm 21:3-5 ESV)

David explains that God continues to meet him with rich blessings. The phrase, “you meet him with rich blessings,” brings a special occasion meal to mind. The table is set with fine china, crystal water goblets, and ornate silverware. A fantastic dinner featuring favorite foods is served. Music plays, and candlelight fills the table with a warm and welcoming glow.

God’s richest blessings for me are handcrafted and uniquely designed to nourish my unique needs. They are perfectly timed, even though I am unaware of the schedule. They are perfectly abundant, and they never stop coming my way. God’s richest blessings spring out of His abundance, not because I deserve them.

Prayer

Lord, help me to look for and thank you for every rich blessing you send. These daily gifts provide for me in ways I may not even realize. Open my spiritual eyes to see them all so I can cultivate a grateful heart. Help me point out abundance, not lack.

God sets the crown upon each head.

Despite how things may appear, no one sits on a throne in this world who was not invited by God. The good, the bad, and the “not so wonderful” included. God places the crown upon the head of every leader. He uses them all for His purposes in ways we may never know or understand. No one is beyond the reach of God.

In a world where politicians and leaders act like toddlers, God’s ability to intercede brings peace and comfort. God operates in the eternal. His timing is not ours. So, we may witness terrible leaders in our lifetime. However, God will bring about redemption in ways we can’t imagine.

My Heart’s Anchor

6 For you make him most blessed forever; you make him glad about the joy of your presence.
7 For the king trusts in the Lord, and through the steadfast love of the Most High, he shall not be moved.
(Psalm 21:6-7 ESV)

What activity causes people to experience gladness? Parties, fame, luxury, power?

Spending time in God’s presence provides resilient joy not based on current circumstances. Carving out time each day requires planning.

What activity causes people to experience stability and not be moved? Money, power, or success?

Trusting in the Lord. My “trusting-God-muscles” must be exercised regularly, or I default quickly to self-reliance. Trust anchors my heart and keeps me from being carried off by the blustering winds of the world. I shall not be moved because God holds me tight.

Prayer

Thank you that you invite me into your presence. Your presence is never too crowded or closed for repairs. I can always come to you and rest at your feet. Soul tending restoration occurs every time I go and stay.

Thank you, God, for holding onto me amid change and chaos. If I let go of You, You never let go of me. Strengthen my trusting muscles, so I may more and more deeply rely on You.

God’s enemies

8 Your hand will find out all your enemies; your right hand will find out those who hate you.

9 You will make them as a blazing oven when you appear. The Lord will swallow them up in his wrath, and fire will consume them.

10 You will destroy their descendants from the earth, and their offspring from among the children of man.

11 Though they plan evil against you, though they devise mischief, they will not succeed.

12 For you will put them to flight; you will aim at their faces with your bows.
(Psalm 21:8-12 ESV)

Ultimately, God will bring complete justice to all of His enemies. He will destroy them and their descendants with fire. He will once and for all balance the scales of justice in His favor. Once and for all, evil will be vanquished, and suffering will be over for God’s people. Our limited minds and hearts can hardly begin to conceive this kind of final justice and peace.

Spontaneous Rejoicing

13 Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power.
(Psalm 21:13 ESV)

After the Lord has completed the restoration work, singing and praising will break out amongst His people. Spontaneous rejoicing will roll out over the new Heaven and new Earth. The praising God party will never end.

In the meantime, I believe God gives us glimpses of making things all new when we gather together and worship Him. The Holy Spirit reveals glimmers of the now and not yet kingdom to sustain us on our journey.  

Prayer
Lord, open my eyes and heart to see glimpses of restoration around me. Thank you for being the one worthy of our praise.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

To read more about Queen Elizabeth’s faith – see the article:

https://christianity.org.uk/article/queen-elizabeths-faith

What is Happiness? Psalm 20

/ Anthea Kotlan / Leave a comment

*Writer Kendra Cherry defines happiness as,

an emotional state characterized by feelings of joy, satisfaction, contentment, and fulfillment. While happiness has many different definitions, it is often described as involving positive emotions and life satisfaction. 

How often can you expect to be happy?

About half the time.

When I heard this recently, I confess that I was surprised. We live in a society that expects happiness to be achievable as a reasonably permanent state. It is treated as a goal that can be reached and then a location where you can live, permanently. Hence, the notion of meeting your perfect match and living “happily ever after.”

The book of Psalms provides believers with much honest reflection about the struggles and joys of life. There are psalms written to process through difficult emotions and hard times and celebrate God’s goodness.

Psalm 20 was written as a prayer for the kings of Israel, acknowledging that even the most powerful king must depend upon the Lord for protection. The most amazing weapons systems ever created cannot stop the forces of evil that come against us all at times.

1 May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble! May the name of the God of Jacob protect you!
2 May he send you help from the sanctuary and give you support from Zion!
3 May he remember all your offerings and regards with favor your burnt sacrifices! 
Selah 
(Psalm 20:1-3 ESV)

Reality

The opening verses of this prayer point to the reality these believers lived in. A cycle of burnt sacrifices and offerings had to be maintained. Today, we can praise the Lord for His generous provision for us in Jesus, the once and for all sacrifice.

We can boldly approach God’s throne and request help for our people and us; no sacrifices are required. God regards us with favor because of the blood of Jesus.  

4 May he grant you your heart's desire and fulfills all your plans!
5 May we shout for joy over your salvation, and in the name of our God, set up our banners! May the LORD fulfill all your petitions! (Psalm 20:4-5 ESV)

Will the Lord hear our prayers, grant our heart’s desires, and fulfill our plans?

He could, but He loves us far too much to make this an even exchange. He will give us what is best for our hearts and what will fulfill the ultimate plans for our lives. He’s shaping us into the likeness of Jesus, and this will involve some answers we don’t love.

6 Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed; he will answer him from his holy heaven
    With the saving might of his right hand.
7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
8 They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright.
9 O LORD, save the king! May he answer us when we call. (Psalm 20:6-9 ESV)

I believe the Lord can make special provisions for Godly leaders and those in authority.

Who is anointed by the Lord?

As believers, we are all anointed as the priesthood of believers. We are all influential leaders in various places and in multiple circumstances in our lives. I speak to women all the time who may suggest they are, in fact, not leaders. However, every woman influences her home, children, spouse, parents, friends, coworkers, neighbors, social media, and so much more than we ever realize.

Do you trust chariots or horses?

So far, I can honestly say that I have never really been dependent upon horses or chariots for my day-to-day life. However, chariots and horses would have been how protection was found in this psalm writing. Build stronger chariots to fight wars and find faster horses.

What might it look like in my life to depend upon chariots and horses?

  • Are you relying on the latest technology to solve all of my problems?
  • Will purchasing a new iPhone make me feel happier?
  • Are you taking a new magical supplement?
  • Are you buying the latest fashions?
  • Following the latest eating plan?

While any one of these things might temporarily give me a boost, none of these are sustainable for achieving happiness.  

Sustainable Joy

The psalmist points to a simple yet challenging solution for sustainable joy.

“Trust in the name of the Lord our God.”

When I surrender my plans for His.

  • When I seek Him first.
  • When I surrender to His ways and not my own.
  • When I rely entirely on His resources to work things out, He sustains me.

Prayer

Thank you for the anointing provided by You for every believer.

Thank you for saving me by the blood of Jesus Christ, Your son.

Thank you for answering my prayers in the best ways for me and those I love.  

Thank you that I can trust in the name of the Lord my God. You are always reliable.
Thank you that I can stand upright before You because of all You have done for me.

Thank you that you answer me when I call.

Thank you for the sustainable joy that comes from this knowledge.

In Jesus’s name, Amen.

*Article by Kendra Cherry -“What is Happiness?”

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-happiness-4869755

Do You Have a Cluttered Heart and Soul? Psalm 15

/ Anthea Kotlan / Leave a comment

Drowning in stuff

Some days my house could be featured on one of those shows where they share the before and after home organization transformation. Mostly, I would be a great candidate for before pics.

I’ve practiced that Marie Kondo method, joined some groups on social media, and even did one of those “40 bags in 40 days” challenges. So far, I have failed at the ongoing maintenance required to avoid piling stuff up repeatedly.

Who doesn’t love a good clear the clutter and organize your space video? Some gals on Instagram also show you products that magically create order out of chaos. These reels may be short, but they make me so peaceful.

What is it about watching those transformations that feels so satisfying?

The Lord values order, and our souls and hearts are designed to thrive best in uncluttered environments. While exterior order calms us internally, interior order is needed for each of us to be fully present with God.

When anger and unforgiveness fill my heart and soul, I carry that toxicity with me. It is a burden I wasn’t designed to carry.

1 O LORD, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill? (Psalm 15:1 ESV)

God clarifies what He requires of those who wish to spend time in His presence. Dwelling and sojourning with Him provide needed soul restoration. But God wants us to come into His presence with our hearts and souls prepared. 

2 He who walks blamelessly and does what is right and speaks truth in his heart; (Psalm 15:2 ESV)

Integrity is key. An alignment of internal and external truth, revealed in our speech and actions, keeps me prepared to spend time with God.

What does your life reflect?

Do your words and values align?

Some regular time spent in heart and soul examination powered by the Holy Spirit can be very beneficial. I struggle to take the time required to do this adequately.

3 who does not slander with his tongue and does no evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his friend; (Psalm 15:3 ESV)

External integrity will be revealed in how we treat neighbors and friends. Daily life requires constant vigilance to avoid taking up offense or reproach. We live in a society that celebrates offense.

Were you mistreated? Take up your case on social media and share any real or perceived immoral behavior with others. Feel free to share specifics, including names and locations. Be generous with your offense.

But to what end?

While initially, sharing offense feels so satisfying, the result damages everyone exposed.

Words and Deeds

4 in whose eyes a vile person is despised, but who honors those who fear the LORD;
Who swears to his own hurt and does not change; (Psalm 15:4 ESV)

God calls believers to steer clear of those who do wrong and be kind and generous with believers who honor God with their words and actions. When promises and pledges are made, then they must be kept, even if it is painful or difficult.

Money Habits

5 who does not put out his money at interest and does not take a bribe against the innocent.
He who does these things shall never be moved. (Psalm 15:5 ESV)

Another indication of a cluttered heart and soul is how I treat my money. A glance at 90 days of banking statements reveals what I see as important. Am I generous? Do I give sacrificially? What do I invest in? What do I save for? Would I loan money to someone and then charge interest? Would I allow someone’s generosity with me to create an undue influence on my decision-making?

God intends believers to remain steadfast and not buffeted by the latest trend. An uncluttered heart can remain sensitive to the Lord’s leading and necessary course corrections.

Prayer

Lord, clear any clutter in my heart and mind between me and Your guidance. Draw me close every day. Show me how to reflect the truth of your word with every aspect of my life so that I might honor and glorify You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Flammable Foolishness – Psalm 14

/ Anthea Kotlan / Leave a comment

Years ago, we sold a home, and a few weeks after closing got a call from our realtor. She explained that the home buyer had reported that the gas logs in the house we sold were not working correctly. There had been an incident, and she had been burned. The buyer wanted to know who had installed the gas logs and find out who was to blame.

My husband suggested we pay for the installer to go and inspect the logs and figure out what had gone wrong. A few days later, the installer called to report a rather interesting conversation with the buyer. It went something like this.

Can you tell me what happened on the day you had a problem with the gas logs?

Well, I turned the gas on in the fireplace and realized I didn’t have a lighter. I went back to the kitchen to search for one. When I got back and lit the logs, there was a flare-up. That is how I got burned.

Let me clarify this. You left the gas on and went to find a lighter?

Yes, that is what I said.

The installer then patiently explained that it was a wonder she didn’t blow the whole house up and would never do that again.

By God’s grace, her injuries were minor. While I was sad she got hurt, I was grateful not to be held responsible for someone else’s foolish decision. Today, I let my husband light the logs at our house.

The Bible is full of wisdom and stories of the foolishness of human beings. Psalm 14 contrasts God’s wisdom with foolishness. Perhaps God offers much insight to us because we so sorely need it. We live in a world where the voice of folly is loud and appears to be in charge.

How often does that voice influence me?

The psalmist begins Psalm 14, pointing to foolishness.

Follow Your Heart

1 The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds;
    there is none who does good. (Psalm 14:1 ESV)

This statement of practical atheism proclaims that God has nothing to do with our lives.

The fool speaks from his heart. Human hearts and emotions are not reliable sources of wisdom. Listening to your heart sounds so good in a country music ballad, but the practice may lead to severe mistakes. What feels so true in the moment might not be accurate in reality.

Relying on our hearts may lead to corruption.

Merriam-Webster defines corruption as “a departure from the original or from what is pure or correct.” The corrosive effect of foolishness leads to abominable deeds.  

Check out the headlines on any given day to read more about what that looks like in real life. What gets done to vulnerable people like the elderly or children all seems quite abominable. I don’t think anyone wakes up on any given day intent on extremely abusive behavior. It could be a slow drift towards foolish choices that slowly go downhill to an extreme degree.

Practical atheism or “God has nothing to do with my life” makes human beings feel adrift without a moral standard.

As a believer, I live in a sin-saturated society. Atheist fools are platformed, and their guidance is often set as the standard for all. That influence can take a toll on me as a believer.  

2 The LORD looks down from heaven on the children of man, to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. (Psalm 14:2 ESV)

Misunderstanding

The LORD has a 360-degree view of seeing the entire universe. He looks down from heaven and sees the “children of man.” These people choose to live their lives apart from God and have limited perspectives.

The children of man misunderstand the wisdom of God.

God can discern, from His perspective, if a person understands or seeks Him. While sometimes I believe I know this too, I don’t. It’s easy for me to assign motives creatively, but I don’t know what is in someone’s heart or mind. Only God does because only God can handle that information.

3 They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good,
    not even one. (Psalm 14:3 ESV)

Contagious Corruption

Turning aside from God’s wisdom leads to contagious corruption, spreading from one person to another. They no longer have the ability to do any good.

I long to create a comfortable distance from this situation. I want to claim that I seek God so I won’t become corrupted. However, I live in a world where this is sadly so common. How many high-profile Christian leaders do we see fall into corruption? This can happen to any leader, but when one of the high-profile ones falls, it dramatically damages the body of Christ.

As a believer, I am not inoculated from foolishness. I need a steady stream of wisdom from God to counteract all I am exposed to daily.

4 Have they no knowledge, all the evildoers who eat up my people as they eat bread
    and do not call upon the LORD?

Exploiting

Foolish people become evildoers who eat up God’s people like bread. Exploiting other people is as natural to them as eating daily bread. They don’t suffer any guilt or concern. Evildoers do not call upon the LORD.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to love people. It is far too easy to focus on accomplishing a worthy goal that people feel used to or exploited. I must seek God’s wisdom to avoid these practices and rely on Him to achieve goals.

However, God will not allow exploitation to remain unchecked. This is the part of the psalm that turns in a promising direction.

5 There they are in great terror, for God is with the generation of the righteous. (Psalm 14:5 ESV)

God provides His presence.

Foolish people, who don’t acknowledge God, will end in terror and alone.

God is going to help the righteous ones who seek God’s wisdom.

God is with the generation of the righteous. God’s peaceful presence transforms our lives. He is the one who makes us righteous by the blood of Jesus’s death on the cross. 

6 You would shame the plans of the poor, but the LORD is his refuge. (Psalm 14:6 ESV)

God provides refuge

The LORD is the refuge for the poor. Those who lack peace or provision can run into God’s presence. His door is always open, and He is never too busy for us. God can overrule the plans of people who are not seeking Him. He can also bless the plans of those who do seek Him.

7 Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion! When the LORD restores the fortunes of his people, let Jacob rejoice, let Israel be glad. (Psalm 14:7 ESV)

God provides hope.

In verse 7, hope skips into the scene. The LORD points to Zion because it is where God revealed Himself to man most personally as Jesus Christ. Salvation is here for us now, and the complete restoration is coming. Notice that it is not a matter of if; it says when the LORD restores the fortunes of His people because He will.

We can keep a hopeful perspective even in times when foolishness abounds.

God is in the restoration business and working now and not yet.

Prayer

Lord, when I feel surrounded by foolishness, help me seek Your wisdom every day. Please help me to take the time to take refuge in you. Guard my heart against being hijacked by the tyranny of the urgent. I need to hear from you in your word first and daily. Lord, let me live with a hope-filled perspective set upon your promises and presence.

In Jesus’s name, Amen.

How do you avoid flammable foolishness?