Devotional for October from Psalm 32:10

Scripture: “Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord.” ~Psalm 32:10

Thought: What creates sorrow? Might it be that sorrow stems mainly from our expectations and our perceptions? Sometimes we have expectations for how things should be. Admit it. You have big expectations at times. Your birthday arrives and you wake after a full night of deep and restful sleep to the smell of your spouse cooking a fresh breakfast and the day includes calls and birthday wishes and the most thoughtful present from your kids. Perfect, accept that you were really up half the night with a stiff neck from too much computer work. Your husband slept in while you got up and took care of the kids and dogs. You siblings all forgot your birthday. Oh, and no gift in sight. Our dashed expectations create a perception that we are overlooked, unimportant, or, even, unloved.

Action: Let’s reimagine that birthday. Your birthday comes and you did sleep poorly, your husband did sleep in, your siblings just sent a text but didn’t call, and there was no gift. But, your spouse did remember your birthday and told you emphatically how much of a blessing you are in their life. Your kids were healthy. A few stretches in the morning and that stiff neck is a short-term memory. At the end of the day, you have lived, loved, and received the greatest gift of all, eternal life with Jesus. Does that change our sorrow into joy? I think so.

Prayer: Dear Lord, So much of my sorrow rests in my own expectations and perceptions. Help me to focus on you and the many undeserved blessings that you have given me, rather than my own selfish desires and wants. You are my joy. In your name we pray, Amen.