Encountering God's Heart is a captivating week-by-week devotional that explores the spiritual journey of meeting God through the lens of the Psalms. The book reflects on the profound wisdom and timeless truths found in the Psalms, which serve as a guide for deepening one's relationship with God. Drawing inspiration from the psalmists' heartfelt prayers, praises, and struggles, readers are encouraged to embrace a more intimate and authentic connection with God. Through personal stories, insightful reflections, and practical applications, readers are invited to experience God's love, grace, and faithfulness in profound ways. Through this book, we are reminded that the Psalms can be a source of comfort, inspiration, and transformation, leading readers to encounter God's heart in a new and meaningful way.
Encountering God's Heart is not just another devotional, it is a week-by-week unique approach to exploring the Psalms and deepening one's relationship with God. The book offers a fresh perspective on the transformative power of the Psalms. Unlike traditional commentaries or devotionals, the author focuses on the personal and experiential aspects of encountering God. She shares her own journey of discovering the profound truths and practical applications found in the Psalms, making the content relatable and accessible to readers of all backgrounds. The book not only provides insightful reflections on the Psalms but also offers practical exercises to help readers engage with the Psalms in their own lives. It encourages readers to go beyond intellectual understanding and invites them to experience a deeper connection with God through heartfelt prayers, praise, and worship. This emphasis on personal experience and application sets "Encountering God's Heart" apart, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking a more intimate and transformative relationship with God.
I believe most readers would be impacted by the week-by-week review of the Psalms, but most importantly by the "Meditation & Prayer" section, as they have a quiet time with God, reflecting on the Psalm they have read and applying it to their life.
WEEK #6
Psalm 37
The Heritage of the Righteous and the Calamity of the Wicked
Psalm 37 is a beautiful reminder of the faithfulness of God and the hope we have in Him. In a world filled with envy and comparison, we are reminded to trust in the Lord, to commit our ways to Him, to find our rest in Him, and to delight in His ways. Even in the face of adversity and evil, God's goodness and faithfulness prevail. Let this psalm be a personal conversation between you and God, a source of wisdom and encouragement explicitly tailored to your circumstances.
The psalmist begins by urging us not to fret or be envious of evildoers, for their time will be short-lived. They are cut down and wither like the grass, never to be remembered. Picture yourself in a situation where you are tempted to compare your life to others and feel frustrated or discouraged because you do not measure up or have what they have. At the same time, you hear God gently reminding you that He has a unique plan for your life and that comparing yourself to others only leads to discontentment. At this point, what would you do, believe God, or try to be like the Joneses? The choice is yours.
In times of comparison and envy, resist the urge to be consumed by what others have or achieve. Instead, focus on the blessings that God has bestowed upon you. Find contentment in His provision and trust that He will fulfill the desires of your heart according to His perfect will.
Be encouraged by the psalmist’s declaration, “I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.” Realize that when you seek God and live according to His ways, He will meet your needs abundantly, for there is no lack or scarcity in Him. In my own life, I am constantly reminded to always run in my lane. Whenever I lose focus, I veer off course or lose in the race of life.
When you feel overwhelmed by the wickedness and injustice in the world, take comfort in the assurance that God is the ultimate judge. This week, I encourage you to trust the Lord and always strive to do good to others. Actively seek to live a life that honors Him, and be assured that God will bring justice and blessings to the righteous. As you meditate on this promise, reflect on any injustices or wrongs you may have experienced, and picture yourself releasing any desire for revenge or retribution and entrusting the situation to God instead. Believe that He is a God of justice and will make all things right in His perfect timing when we let go of worry and anxiety.
In the season of waiting, whether for a job, healing, a relationship, or a breakthrough in a particular area of your life, have patience and wait on the Lord. Surrender your timeline and desires to God, trusting His promises are true and His timing is always perfect. Allow His peace to guard your heart as you wait expectantly for Him to lead you on the path of righteousness and blessing.