Your Consolation
Date: November 16, 2023
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B - Bible Verse: "When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy." Psalm 94:19
L - Listen for God's Word Prayer: "Dear Lord, as I reflect on this verse, I ask for your presence to surround me. Help me to listen to your word and find solace in your promises. Let your peace and joy console my anxious heart."
E - Explore the History and Meaning: Psalm 94 is a part of the Book of Psalms, and this particular verse has him expressing his personal experiences and emotions. He speaks of a time when anxiety overwhelmed him. However, he found comfort and joy in God's consolation. It reminds us that, even in our moments of great anxiety, God can bring us joy and solace through His presence and reassurance.
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases:
Anxiety: The psalmist acknowledges the reality of anxiety, something many of us face.
Consolation: God's comforting presence and words provide solace.
Joy: Despite anxiety, the psalmist experiences inner joy through God's consolation.
In times of anxiety, we can turn to God for comfort and experience His joy, knowing that He is with us.
S - Summarize and Share:
There have been times in my life when anxiety felt like a tidal wave, threatening to pull me under. The weight of uncertainty, fear, and doubt can be incredibly overwhelming. But this verse serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to God's unfailing love.
I recall a particular time just recently when I was facing a challenge that stirred immense anxiety within me. Sleepless nights and racing thoughts became my companions. It was during this turbulent period that I turned to this verse. When I read, "When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy," it was as if God Himself spoke to my heart.
The realization that God's consolation could bring joy in the middle of my anxiety was transformative. I started praying more, seeking His presence, and meditating on His promises. Slowly but surely, that suffocating anxiety began to wane, replaced by a profound sense of peace and joy that could only come from God's gracious consolation.
So, if you're wrestling with anxiety today, I want you to hold onto this truth. In those moments of fear, when anxiety feels completely overwhelming, remember that God's love and comfort are unwavering. Take time to pray, pouring out your heart to Him, and allow His soothing presence to bring you a joy that transcends your circumstances. Share this comforting message with others in your life who may also be navigating through anxious times, so they too can find solace in God's embrace.
4 Bible Cross References:
Psalm 34:17 (NIV) - "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles."
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV) - "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) - "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Psalm 56:3 (NIV) - "When I am afraid, I put my trust in you."