The Joy of His Promises — Week 2 (2019)

Posted on by Ekko Church

As we continue in this season of Lent, we are learning to turn away from the things that so easily catch our attention, for the One who satisfies all of us. But, it’s hard, isn’t it?

Though we yearn for the peace of God, we struggle when we are still.

Because it’s in the stillness where we often come face to face with our worries and anxieties.

Because waiting and listening for God’s voice sometimes doesn’t feel very productive. We grow impatient and hurried. Anxious and restless. It’s easier and more tempting to take things into our own hands.

But during the Lent season, we want to practice savoring God’s Word in order to equip our hearts and minds with the truths of God. Because it’s in the proclamation of His truth over our circumstances that reminds us that He is the one illuminating our paths.

Not because God is a fortune teller who will tell us what’s going to happen, or that He promises we won’t have hardships, but because we need to recall upon His faithfulness and His goodness. He is in control. It’s just that we are often so forgetful.

Excerpts from Psalm 119

I have chosen the way of faithfulness;

   I have set my heart on your laws.

Direct me in the path of your commands,

   for there I find delight.

Turn my heart toward your statutes

   and not toward selfish gain.

I have sought your face with all my heart;

   be gracious to me according to your promise.

Your hands made me and formed me;

   give me understanding to learn your commands.

May your unfailing love be my comfort,

   according to your promise to your servant.

Let your compassion come to me that I may live,

   for your law is my delight.

Your word is a lamp for my feet,

   a light on my path.

When we forget that God is in control, we become worried and impatient. We take on the burden ourselves to try to make things happen the way we want it to. We make unwise or poor decisions based on fear. We cut corners at work. We are stingy with our time or finances. We withdraw or turn to our addictions. We forget what He has told us: that He works for the good of those who love him.

And it’s not that our fears are illegitimate, but it’s that He wants us to find hope in His promise. Because He cares for you.

This week, we’re going to fast the ways we cope with worry and anxiety and we’re going to feast on remembering and rehearsing His promises. Because when we do so, this is how we become steadfast. We develop an inner fortitude that is rooted in Him, rather than our circumstances. And we cultivate a lasting joy that comes from knowing and trusting that He is who He says He is.

For 30 minutes each day this week, begin by writing down the worries or fears that you might have and then rehearse His promises that we find in scripture.

For example, if you find yourself discouraged or worried about your job situation, remember that God goes before us. He takes care of our every need. It’s not that your fears are illegitimate. He knows and He cares. So each day, after each reading, reflect on God’s promises.

Who does God say He is?

What are His promises?

Slowly over time, as we equip ourselves with His truth, we begin to find moments of clarity and faith – even when circumstances are hard or out of our control.

Let’s pray: God, I surrender. You remain. On Your truth, I build my life. And through it all, You are still true. You are good on Your word, and You always keep Your promises. Amen.

And for Parents, a prayer of blessing over your child:

Child, May you build your life on the rock of God’s truth. May He be the foundation of your life. Amen.  


To listen to the audio version of this Lenten Devotional, click here.