“Look at others, and be distressed.  Look at yourself, and be depressed.  Look to God, and you’ll be blessed.”  This saying, although I do not know who authored it, has some good Biblical theology behind it.  Anytime we get our eyes off the Lord Jesus, we are headed for discouragement and trouble. Often we are ‘weighed, measured and found wanting,’ even at times among our own peers.  We need to be reminded that Jesus can understand and sympathize with our disappointments. The prophet Isaiah had to remind God’s peoples when they were facing a difficult task and seeming impossible tomorrow to “lift up (their) eyes on high, and see who has created these things!” This same God has promised “those who wait on the LORD, shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” (Isa. 40: 31)  To wait does not imply we do nothing, but to look to God for all that we need!   We can look to Him and lean upon His promises.  We can rely on His power - “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phil. 4:13)  We can rely upon His provision - “and my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:19)

Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (cf. Matt.11: 28)

“God is our (my) refuge and strength!” (cf. Ps. 46)

“When they had lifted up their eyes” the Bible says “they saw no one but Jesus only!” (Cf. Matt.17:8)

Help us (help me) to see Jesus only, only He can satisfy. Only He will not disappoint.  “Be still, and know that I am God!” (cf. Ps 46:10)

Pastor Rodney

Ecclesiastes 12:9-14