Happy Trails: Journey Through the Psalms of AscentSample

This chapter holds a deep plea to God for mercy. While we don’t know what specific circumstance is inspiring the author to pen these words, all of us who are in Christ know what it means to look to God for mercy, for the door to eternal life can only be entered on our knees. And despite what we may think, we do not outgrow our dependence on God in the Christian life, but rather we ought to grow more and more aware of the corners of our souls that we have reserved for our own self-government and turn them over to the true King. We are called to live holding the posture of submission, like a servant looking to his master. (Verse 2)

The world we live in wants nothing to do with submitting to God. It lives in enmity with Him and is swollen with it’s own vain pride, scorning anyone who doesn’t follow in its path. We should not be surprised when we are the subject of contempt, because we as the body of Christ are a living, breathing symbol of something that the world has blatantly rejected. Jesus Christ. But while the world spitefully mocks God’s people on every side, our Savior welcomes us gladly with compassion and gentleness from His everlasting throne. This journey should be marked by a daily practice of lifting our eyes to the One crowned in the heavens for a fresh provision of grace and mercy. As you travel on this winding path of life today, and are tempted to look to the right and the left and be dismayed, remember to instead look up and be encouraged.

1. How have you experienced rejection by others for your faith?
2. How are you needing God’s mercy today? Bring it to Him in prayer.
3. Do you struggle to submit to those who are figures of authority in your life? Ask God to work in you a change of heart.