Day 24 - Verse 18

The LORD is near to all them that call on him, to all that call on him in truth. Verse 18

David states this truth emphatically.  There is no
”maybe”, or “might be”, or conditional “if this or that.”
The Great Covenant
Maker and
Covenant Keeper,  the LORD IS NEAR to ALL who call upon Him in TRUTH.

Oh, this is a mighty truth.  But, sometimes
our hearts are so dull to understand it!  Our minds are too distracted to focus on it.  We often base all our decisions and reactions on our emotional responses to the world around us.  Life speeds by and comes at us in a blur.  We can feel so overwhelmed and have no foothold against it.  

But, hold on a minute!  Are you a child of the Most High God?  Then why do you live in fear?   Why do you live in worry?  Do you know that He is Your Shelter, Your Shade, Your Rock, Your Covering, Your Helper, Your Refuge, Your Strength, Your Savior?

David’s life is such a fantastic example to us.  One of the most well-known and deeply loved stories in probably all of history is that of David’s confident defeat of Goliath.  Even today, people love to see the underdog win!   But, David’s victory was the result of his righteous, fearless confidence in the LORD, not in his own strength or skills.

With all of the armies of Israel trembling in fear at the stronger Philistine army, not a single soldier was willing to face one on one combat with the enormously strong, and insulting Goliath.  I bet he was really ugly, too!  To think that this young lad, probably only 16 or 17 would step out in righteous anger and confidence against this towering monster.

Oh, the idealism of youth, huh?  I remember spouting off in teenage righteousness about the evils of the world, politics, war, and corruption.  But, David was quite different.  He was indeed confrontational, but he knew Who would win the battle as he just stepped out with what he had….a slingshot and a sincere heart for God.

You might want to review the story and be inspired once more.  It is in the first book of Samuel, chapter 17.  David boldly went out saying, “The LORD will deliver you over to me, and I’ll cut off your head and feed your carcass to the birds! And all will know that it is not by the sword that I have won.  The battle belongs to the LORD!”

In sincerity of heart, faithful and confident, fully trusting in Who God is, we, too, can face our battles.

He IS near, even dwelling within us.  His grace has removed the burden of our sins.  His blood has been sprinkled over our minds to purify our consciences and renew us to serve Him.  His sacrifice has brought us into this relationship.  We are never alone.  We simply come to the Lord with just what we have, and He will transform it into something powerful for His glory. 

Thank you, O My Lord, that I can trust in your goodness and power at all times.  I rejoice in your awesome and eternal presence with me today.  You are my peace, my joy, my confidence.   Amen.