Songs of the Soul: A Lent DevotionalSample

For what is only a mere five verses, it packs a punch. Deep in principle and reach, how do you begin to understand this? What could it mean to you and me in the ways God has been portrayed as an Intimate Father?

Let’s break it down. In these five verses, we see three themes. The first theme represents God’s Character. The psalmist uses the words Upright, Faithfulness, Righteousness, Justice, and Steadfast. The second theme talks about God’s Power. The author does this by making a clear juxtaposition between His minute efforts and its grandiose effects. The last theme is our response to His Character and His Power.

What response does the psalmist confer to? One of reverential fear. Contrary to other fear-based religions where followers obey to avoid punishment or shame, Jesus-followers respond with reverential fear. What is reverential fear? The late Tim Keller writes “In the original language, ‘Fear the Lord’ doesn’t mean be afraid. It means sustaining a joyful astonished awe and wonder before Him.”

How do you see God? Do you joyfully gaze in awe as He sits in the Heavenly Realms as the Almighty Creator? Or is He your “bestie” and occasional “helper” in your daily life? Are you motivated by a reverential fear of God, or by a shame-based fear of humankind?

Real wisdom begins when you fear God (Proverbs 9:10). When you grasp the magnitude of His Expansive Character, and His Power to orchestrate life, it brings you to a place of humility. Only through humility can God mold and use you.

So, this Lent, I ask you to reflect on the magnitude of the Gospel Message, the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, and its eternal implications to you, and all Creation. I ask that you reflect on the intimacy of His Intentional Love for you, and His Hand in your life. So, will you respond with reverential fear?

Jeff Lam
Care Group Ministry

Prayer:
God, I pray that we see You with fresh eyes – ones that give You the Glory and Credit that You deserve. Give me the boldness to step out, knowing that the Almighty Creator intentionally and intimately loves me, and goes before me. In Jesus’s Name, Amen.