Pastor Gary's OYB Devotion Archive for July 10

“When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers— the moon and the stars you set in place— what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?” (Psalm 8:3-4 NLT)

From: July 10, 2014

The psalmist David wondered at the immensity and beauty of the night sky in comparison to the small stature of humanity. He poses a rhetorical question concerning God’s care for man, then answers it in the psalm with observations about man’s creation and authority under God. We can almost picture David gazing at the night sky and writing this meditation. Putting the words to music, he opens and closes the psalm with praise of God’s majesty. “O Lord, our Lord,” he writes, moving his attention from the great Creator (O Lord) to the personal Redeemer of Israel (our Lord). For the Lord God is both transcendent and immanent. He is omnipotent and holy, yet personal and present. The God who made everything cares for you.

“‘God in his goodness has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.’ So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said” (Acts 27:24-25)

From: July 10, 2012

Although a prisoner in chains, the apostle Paul became the spiritual leader of all those on board this ship caught in a terrible storm. The sailors, the soldiers, even the Roman centurion were all encouraged by Paul’s faith. The way we respond to life’s storms is often the platform God uses to give us authority to preach the gospel and to bring glory to Himself.

“From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise” (Psalm 8:2)

From: July 10, 2011

Even though God is great, He has chosen little children to praise Him. He has ordained that the weak would silence the strength of His enemies. He laughs at those we consider great and bends His ear to a child’s praise. Teach your children to praise the Lord, your grandchildren to lift up His name.