Today In The Word / Moody Bible Institute God’s Word Provides - TopicsExpress

Today In The Word / Moody Bible Institute God’s Word Provides Hope Read Psalm 119:41–56 My comfort in suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. Psalm 119:50 In the play Shadowlands, the character of C. S. Lewis remarks, “We read to know we’re not alone.” Literature fans can relate to this sentiment—and hopefully so do all Christians. Whatever other kinds of reading we might enjoy, our study of Scripture should constantly remind us that we are not alone. Even if all other friends forsake us, God is still there. This is just one reason that our hope is strengthened through the Word of God. Psalm 119 is often described as a formal poem (an acrostic) that meditates on the glories and wonders of God’s Word. Our passage today gives us several examples of ways that Scripture provides us with hope. First, it reveals God’s promise of love and salvation, and this strengthens us during times of testing (vv. 41–42). Second, God’s Word tells us how we can obey and glorify God, which gives us the freedom to have confidence in God instead of groveling before powerful people (vv. 43–48). Third, Scripture affirms that God does care about our suffering, and His promise of deliverance gives us hope when we are struggling (vv. 49–50). Fourth, God’s Word reminds us that God sees the actions of the wicked and He will be their Judge. Even when we are oppressed, we have hope that the Lord sees and will make all things right (vv. 51–53). Finally, the Word of God is a constant companion for us, offering us the opportunity to hear from the Lord whether it is morning or night, whether we are alone or in a crowd, whether the circumstances are wonderful or woeful (vv. 54–56). What a treasure we have been given in the Bible! Think through your own list of reasons you are thankful and hopeful because of Scripture. You might even follow the example of the psalmist and compose an acrostic poem as a praise offering to the Lord. If you keep a spiritual journal, record some of your thoughts; it will encourage you the next time you need a reminder of the hope found in God’s Word.