Revelation 12; Esther 2; Psalm 105:26-45

“He brought out His people with joy, His chosen ones with gladness.” (Psalm 105:43 NKJV)

As David’s celebratory Psalm continued, he reminded the people of Israel how God had provided for them. He had sent Moses and Aaron to lead them. He had showed His power over the Egyptian gods through the plagues, which made the Egyptians happy to let them go. He had provided for them in the desert. I should add that my wife got a chuckle when it mentioned that the Hebrews had asked God for food, noting that they grumbled, whined, and complained until God sent them food in the wilderness. He provided a home for them in the Promised Land, where they were now celebrating God’s goodness. David reminded the people that God had provided in the past with the implication that He surely would provide for them in the future.

If you’ve ever gone through difficult times, that makes you human. Ditto if you’ve grumbled or complained during the tough times. The cure for that discontent comes when you remember what God has done for you in the past. It’s easy to forget His provision when you’re in the midst of difficulties, but He’s taken care of you, sometimes in ways that isn’t obvious until you take a look back and recognize what He’s done. He’s rescued you with joy and gladness – not only YOUR joy and gladness, but also His. He rejoices when you turn to Him so that He can rescue you. Whatever you’re going through now, think about how He’s provided for you in the past and know, and celebrate, how He’ll provide for you in the present.

Oh Lord, thank You for caring for me. You’ve met my needs in the past and Your love for me hasn’t changed. I know that You’ll provide for me now and in the future.