The Daily Devotional for Sunday, October 29, 2023: Trusting the Known God

 

The Daily Devotional
Sunday, October 29, 2023

Trusting the Known God

Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:10 (NIV)

Every day, Karen gently administered eye drops to her cat Mickey, who was suffering from an eye infection. As she placed him atop the bathroom counter, he would calmly take his position, gazing up at her with eyes widened in apprehension, and steel himself for the forthcoming droplets. "Good boy," she would softly commend him. Although he couldn’t comprehend the necessity of the procedure, Mickey never fled, nor did he resort to hissing or swiping at her. Rather, he would snuggle in closer to Karen, seeking comfort in the very person subjecting him to the discomfort. In her, he found a trusted protector.

When David wrote Psalm 9, he’d probably already experienced much of God’s love and faithfulness. He’d turned to Him for protection from his enemies, and God had acted on his behalf (vv. 3−6). During David’s times of need, God hadn’t failed him. As a result, David came to know what He was like—He was powerful and righteous, loving and faithful. And so, David trusted Him. He knew God was trustworthy.

Reflection:

There's a profound reassurance in the words of this Psalm. When the psalmist says "those who know your name," he refers to those who truly understand the character and nature of God. Knowing God's name goes beyond mere recognition; it's about understanding His attributes, promises, and faithfulness.

Our lives are filled with various uncertainties. We encounter storms and valleys, some of which are so overwhelming that we wonder if we'll ever find our way out. In these moments, the world often asks, "Where is your God now?" or "Why has He abandoned you?"

However, when we genuinely know the Lord—His nature, promises, and love—we understand that He does not abandon His own. Even in the darkest moments, when we can't see a way out or make sense of our situation, our knowledge of God becomes the anchor for our souls.

Application:
 
1. Dive Deeper: Spend time studying God's attributes. When we truly understand who God is—a Refuge, a Healer, a Provider, a Protector—we can better trust in His promises, even during challenging times.

2. Recall His Faithfulness: Think back to times when God showed up for you. Remembering His past faithfulness will strengthen your trust in His present and future provision.

3. Seek Him Continually: Even if you feel like you're in a good place right now, don't wait for storms to seek God. Build that relationship daily. Dive into His Word, pray, and surround yourself with fellow believers who can encourage your faith journey.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for Your unchanging nature. Help me to know You more deeply and trust You more fully. Remind me of Your faithfulness in past seasons so I can confidently face whatever challenges lie ahead, knowing You're by my side. Draw me closer to You every day, and let my trust in You shine as a beacon to those around me. Amen.

May this devotional encourage and strengthen your faith as you grow in your understanding and trust in the Lord.