Psalm 47:8-9

 

            God reigns over the nations; 

      God sits on his holy throne. 

            9       The princes of the peoples gather 

      as the people of the God of Abraham. 

                  For the shields of the earth belong to God; 

      he is highly exalted! 

Sometimes, we make ourselves so busy that it would seem we are the only person who can do these things. It is a safe bet that it is not the case but our pride blinds us to that fact. It is also a sign that we think it is up to us and we are alone in the battle, forgetting the sovereign God that made all the things that we are stressing ourselves about. Government officials pore over legislation deep into the night but it is God who reigns over the nations, not the officials. Politicians seek the highest office in the land but God is the most powerful on earth. Kings and presidents are mere instruments in the Lord’s hands. We do well to remember that.

Jesus bids the weary come to him and find rest in his loving arms. Instead, we are like Martha, who wearied herself making preparations for serving the Lord while her sister Mary worshiped. Jesus doesn’t need us or call us to work 24/7 in service of him. What he wants is for us to set time aside from our busy schedule and worship him, talk to him, and hear from him in the reading of his word. Today, may we be busily meditating on Jesus and his deeds. The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will do this.

Dear Lord, thank you for giving us rest. May we be obedient in using it to devote our worship to you for what you have done for us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.