Crying Out to God
In Psalm 118, the psalmist cries out to God for deliverance while surrounded by enemies on every side. He feels pushed back and about to fall, yet still praises God for His unfailing love.
We may not be literally surrounded by enemies, but we all face difficult situations that make us feel trapped and overwhelmed. Financial struggles, health issues, loss of a loved one, loneliness – these battles can make us feel backed into a corner emotionally and spiritually. In the midst of hardship, the psalmist kept His focus on God. He trusted that despite outward circumstances, the Lord would open the gate to freedom and salvation.
Jesus Opens the Gate
Jesus is that gate the Psalmist speaks of in verse 19 (John 10:9). Through faith in Christ’s death and resurrection, we have access to a righteousness we could never earn or work for on our own. Jesus is both the capstone and cornerstone of our lives (Psalm 118:22). As the cornerstone, He provides stability and support when everything else feels shaky. As the capstone, He holds all the broken pieces together and completes what is unfinished and imperfect.
What is fascinating about Psalm 118 is that it is located in the very center of the Bible. Isn’t that just like God? The central chapter of His entire word points to His Son, Jesus. The placement of this Psalm is no coincidence. It reminds us that our lives are not ultimately about us, but about Jesus. He is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6), and all of Scripture points to him.
Choosing Joy
No matter what we face today, Jesus is our hope. The psalmist proclaimed boldly, “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24). This seems audacious when going through hard times, yet rejoicing is still a choice. We can’t always control circumstances, but we can control our focus and attitude.
Despite heartache and uncertainty, we can rejoice in God’s presence and providence. No matter what you’re up against, be confident in God’s unchanging love for you, always. God has already opened the gate to freedom and victory through Jesus. He will give strength to not just endure, but rejoice. This is the day the Lord has made. Rejoice and be glad!
The above devotion is based on a Sunday school lesson given by Stark alum Farris Avery. Farris serves as the Student Minister at Minnehulla Baptist Church in Goliad, TX.