Week 48
Psalm 138:8 “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of Your hands.”
The psalmist here bathes his heart in one of the sweetest assurances that is available for God’s people. In this passage, the psalmist reflects on God’s steadfast and enduring love intervening in our life experiences achieving what is best for us. He remembers that no matter what the circumstances or difficulties in life may be, the Lord because of His covenant love, will “fulfill His purpose for me.” This text reminds us that the very best is what God completes in our lives. We can depend upon the Lord to choose for us what is right and good; nothing can keep Him from fulfilling His calling and will for our lives.
Often God’s people wonder how things will turn out. We ponder: “Will tomorrow be good? Will we endure well? Will God show up and take care of me?” Many situations give us good reason to wonder about such things. The Bible states that the devil is like a roaring lion prowling about looking for someone to devour (See 1 Peter 5:8). We confess that Jesus is right when He assesses us as those whose spirit is willing but whose flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41). Our text reminds us of why we must not lose heart. This passage instructs us to fight well against the darkness of despair. Why and how can we fight in such straits?
First, the Scripture in this text reminds us that God’s love is steadfast and enduring. His love is superabundant and sufficient for every experience of life. His love for us cannot diminish or fail. He will continue to love us, no matter what happens. We must remember this when we feel like all love has died, including God’s love for us.
Second, God will not forsake the work of His hands; God’s redeemed people are the work of His hands of grace and saving power (See Ephesians 2:10). God will not save us and then abandon us.
Third, God has promised to fulfill His purpose for us. God saves those in whom He plans and purposes to finish His work. This is clearly stated in Philippians 1:6, “I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” God’s purpose is a process, it takes time. This is called sanctification, and it is a process that God empowers and performs all through life. God’s purpose is loving; it cannot be otherwise, for God is love. God’s purpose is all-wise; it cannot make a mistake or err. And, God’s purpose is guaranteed in the lives of His people.
Christian friend, we can live our lives knowing that God is working for our good and our perfection in all things. He will not change His plan, and He will not fail to accomplish His purpose. Let us live in the confidence that comes from this truth; let us live in a holy desire to seek God’s will and leadership in all things, always seeking His glory and honor.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to never give in to the fear and despair that comes from failing to believe You are working godliness and holiness in my life. I trust You now and always to make me like Christ. Continue Your holy work of sanctification in me for Your glory. Amen.