Daily Devotional for July 24, 2010

1 Samuel 17:3
The LORD has rescued me from the claws of lions and bears, and he will keep me safe from the hands of this Philistine. "All right," Saul answered, "go ahead and fight him. And I hope the LORD will help you."

Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.

My husband and I have been working on a project to organize our family photos in chronological order and digitize all of them. Daunting task? You bet! And there’s more… in looking back through all of the photos, we’ve experienced an incredible range of emotions … joy in seeing the pictures – especially the babies, kittens, puppies, children and other pets … laughter at hairstyles and what-were-we-thinking clothing options … and profound sorrow for the loss of loved ones, homes, and more. The “emotional rollercoaster ride” is something for which we weren’t prepared.

But there’s more. In looking back over decades of photos – ours and those of our parents – we realized just how much we have accomplished, endured, and overcome. We’ve had our share of “claws of lions and bears and hands of the Philistines!” But God has carried us through them. We’ve survived … grown … become much stronger … and the LORD has helped us indeed!

Sometimes it’s a good idea to stop and take inventory of where you have been and how far you have come … to see what God has done in your life and to recognize the amazing things you have been able to manage/accomplish/endure in His name. There will always be “Sauls” who will say, “prove it.” The good news is that with God guiding our steps, we can do just that!

Take some time to think over the events of your life and how God has cared for you, nurtured you, and blessed you along the way. Recognize the times He has saved you from “lions, bears and Philistines,” and acknowledge that He still has your back. Create an arsenal of examples to share with others that will encourage and bless them and serve as proof that the LORD does help each of us. And while you are at it, start to acknowledge the ways He helps you every day. Be humble and thankful, and trust Him always. The LORD is indeed our help – and it’s time we recognized Him!

©2010 Debbie Robus

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