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Psalm 33:12-22  

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance. From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth—he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do. No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength. A horse is a vain hope for deliverance; despite all its great strength it cannot save. But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love be with us, LORD, even as we put our hope in you.

In what or in whom do you put your confidence? What gives you hope? What causes you to breathe a sigh of certainty?

Too many people look in the wrong place for confidence. Some find comfort in the right political party, military muscle, or economic strength.  Personally, we strive for the right job or financial security. Let’s face it. We like to place our bets on strong charismatic people and our possessions.

God laughs at our misguided assurance.  Human strength, no matter how convincing or clever, is no match for God. He keeps His eye on those “whose hope is in his unfailing love.” At the end of the day He alone is our only Deliverer, our only Helper, our only Shield. The wise person waits in hope for the Lord.

Father, I confess, I am tempted to look to military strength, political leaders, and personal wealth as sources of confidence. Forgive me. May I always put my trust in You alone. In Jesus’ name. Amen.