Daily devotional, June 12, 2024 Watching you sleep
“For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him.” 2 Chronicles 16:9
Ask any new parent about what has changed in their life since their baby is born, and most likely, she will tell you that she lost a lot of sleep. But even if she had to wake up a couple of times a night, or even stay up most nights, she will happily tell you that she enjoys watching her baby sleep. And that from time to time, she closely watches and observes her to check if she is still breathing.
That same joy and concern is showered upon us by our Heavenly Father who delights in caring for us, and seeing us comfortable and happy.
"He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep." Psalm 121:3-4
As followers of Jesus, we could hold on to God’s promise that He will take care of us. We can rest assured that as we surrender our lives to Him, He will help us endure challenges that come our way.
"Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love, that He may deliver their soul from death and keep them alive in famine."
Psalm 33:18-19
When we feel like no one is caring for us, we must remind ourselves that there is a God who has immense concern for us. When we feel like we lack the loving care, guidance, and help from our parents because they are too far from us, or they have passed on, we must remember that we have a God who is also our Heavenly Father who loves us more than anyone could ever do.
"The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night."
Psalm 121:5-6
In Psalm 121, which is a song sung by travelers as prayer of protection, they invoke God’s help and guidance in their journey. As present-day followers of Jesus, we too can invoke this prayer of protection and praise, because our earthly journey also has its share of perils that could hurt us physically, spiritually and emotionally.
"The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:7-8
Let us have the confidence to ask our Heavenly Father to protect us from harm. When we are in dire need of help, let Him be the first one whom we call. Prayer should always be our first option. Let us anchor our life and our security only in Him, and depend on Him for our life. And as we depend on Him more, all the more He will show us that He cares for us because we are His children.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him,and He will make straight your paths."
Proverbs 3:5-6
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Psalm 121 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: Where does your help come from?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you for being my help and refuge. Thank you for overlooking all my sins, and for being faithful to me in spite of my transgressions. Help me to be confident enough to seek you first in both times of trouble and happiness. I love you Lord. Amen.