Psalm 85
The psalmist is remembering a time when God had delivered His people and forgiven their sins, vv. 1-3. Now he is asking God to do it again, vv. 4-7. This reminds me of how many times we fail and have to come back to God once more, admit what we've done, and ask for His forgiveness and help. I hate to admit it, but sometimes I am ashamed that I'm struggling with the same issues I faced 50 years ago! And yet we have the scriptural example telling us that repentance and seeking God's help is always the right solution. Apparently, it's never too late for a fresh start.
The remaining verses remind us to continue to be faithful and not return to our foolish ways. These are the blessings that await us, "Unfailing love and truth have met together. Righteousness and peace have kissed! Truth springs up from the earth, and righteousness smiles down from heaven. Yes, the Lord pours down his blessings. Our land will yield its bountiful harvest." vv.10-12
Luke 11:37-54
Jesus delivers a scathing message to the Pharisees who are concerned only about outward appearances but are actually mean and cruel and evil within. It's interesting that even in modern times the term "pharisee" has become synonymous with "hypocrite." It's easy to see their sin. In fact, it's always easy to see everyone else's failures. Our job is to be as brutally honest with ourselves as Jesus was with the Pharisees. No excuses!
It is no use to pray for the old days; stand square where you are and make the present better than any past has been. Base all on your relationship to God and go forward, and presently you will find that what is emerging is infinitely better than the past ever was." --Oswald Chambers
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