Devotional – December 13, 2011

VERSE:
Psalm 140:4–Protect me, Lord, from the clutches of the wicked. Keep me safe from violent men who plan to make me stumble.

TRUTH:
I’ve heard some people say that it’s selfish and wrong to pray for yourself, yet the psalmist does that all the time. In this psalm, he’s praying to be rescued and kept safe from evil people intent on destroying his witness. As God’s children, He wants to see us, not necessarily safe, but fulfilling our purpose and calling. God has a purpose for us and praying for help to keep us from stumbling and sinning is part of God’s plan. We need to be kept safe from the wicked so we don’t follow in their ways.

RESPONSE:
Lord, while I would like to be kept safe from harm, I’m much more interested in being kept safe from evil. I want to please You and fulfill Your plans for me, not be distracted by evil influences that might cause me to stumble and not follow You.