A Watchful God - Psalm 121

Presented at the Essex--Tuesday, September 14, 2010
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Psalm 121 teaches us to look to the hills to see where our help comes from. The Psalmist reminds us that our help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth... He also tells us that God does not slumber or sleep, but continually watches over us and promises to safeguard us.

As a husband, I feel obligated to be the protector of my home. Before I go to bed at night, I ensure all the doors are locked and that it is safe for my wife. I even stay awake in bed for a short while after all the lights are out listening to the sounds and wondering if any evil lurks in the shadows. However, I ultimately fall asleep. I pray that if something ever happens I would be quick to wake up and stand guard. God, on the other hand, never sleeps. His watch is constant over our lives. This does not mean, however, that our lives will be free from trial or difficulty.

In the Gospels, Jesus instructed His disciples to cross over to the other side of the sea while he went up the hill to pray. As they crossed the waters, they encountered strong winds and rough waves. Jesus saw their distress and walked across the water to meet them. They were terrified, thinking they had seen a ghost. Jesus quickly calmed their fears and as He stepped into the boat with them the storm died down.

Sometimes, the Lord allows us to see the storms in our lives so that we can see Him bring the calm. The presence of the storm does not meant he absence of His watchfulness and protection. In those times, we can have peace in the midst of the storm, knowing that God will bring shelter in His time.

New Format

Dear Readers,

Last year, this blog functioned as a sounding board for my daily devotional thoughts, in hopes that while I was preaching on spiritual intimacy with God, people would be encouraged to do their own devotional thoughts. However, that season has come and gone and I trust people are engaged in devotional reading without my daily thoughts. Therefore, I want to change the focus of this much neglected blog. Instead of reporting my daily thoughts, I will be posting the thoughts and inspirations that come while preparing messages throughout the week. That way, if anyone misses church services, they can get the sermon notes and information from this blog. I pray it blesses you as you continue to follow God.

In Christ,

Pastor Josh