Power for the Godly

But as for me, I will always proclaim what God has done; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. For God says, “I will break the strength of the wicked, but I will increase the power of the godly.” Psalm 75: 9-10 NLT

The psalmist is clear in that fact that the godly do not judge. They leave that up to God. In fact, the godly are too busy focusing on God to be judging. God's deeds are being proclaimed by the godly.

The godly are praising God rather than criticizing others. Their reward is an increase of power. I don't think this means political or financial power. I think this means spiritual power.

When the wicked raise a defiant fist against God or when the proud boast of their deeds, their spiritual power is sucked out of them. As Jesus might have said, they have received their own reward. They become depleted.

When the godly spend their time praising God and telling about God's deeds, they are refreshed and renewed. They find vital energy when it seemed like there was no more to be had. This is a gift – and a reward-- from God.

God, may I always spend more time praising you than putting others down. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2012 Amelia G. Sims

God is the Judge

I warned the proud, 'Stop your boasting!' I told the wicked, 'Don't raise your fists! Don't raise your fists in defiance at the heavens or speak with such arrogance.' ” For no one on earth – from east or west, or even from the wilderness-- should raise a defiant fist. It is God alone who judges; he decides who will rise and who will fall. For the Lord holds a cup in his hand that is full of foaming wine mixed with spices. He pours out the wine in judgment, and all the wicked must drink it, draining it to the dregs. Psalm 75: 4-8 NLT

Oh, that I would remember that God is the judge, not me.

I am pretty quick to judge other people. Usually, my judgment puts them in a bad light. I think the worst of them or am quick to criticize them. It isn't as though I am judging them in terms of sending them to hell. It is more like putting them on the scales and finding them lacking in some way. They don't make perfection in my book, so I am going to simply dismiss them.

That sounds pretty harsh. But I have to follow this up with the fact that I am just as harsh with myself as with anyone else. I am quick to judge and find myself lacking as well. Of course, I am sure I don't come out to be as bad as everyone else. Still. That is my own mindset.

Then I hear: it is God alone who judges. It is up to God to decide who is good or perfect. It is up to God to carry out the judgment. It is also up to God to carry out the punishment.

Thank goodness it is up to God to extend mercy and forgiveness as well.

God, you are the judge. Not me. Help me to live in your love and forgiveness all of my days and to extend that same love to my neighbors. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2012 Amelia G. Sims

One Minute of Thanks

We thank you, O God! We give thanks because you are near. People everywhere tell of your wonderful deeds. God says, “At the time I have planned, I will bring justice against the wicked. When the earth quakes and its people live in turmoil, I am the one who keeps its foundations firm.” Psalm 75: 1-3 NLT

What can you give thanks for this day?

How about God's nearness?

What deeds has God done for you this past month?

Take one minute right now to list what you are thankful for.

We thank you, O God! We give thanks because you are near. People everywhere tell of your wonderful deeds. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2012 Amelia G. Sims