September 13, 2025

GOD IS WORKING ON OUR BEHALF

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Answer me when I call to you, O God who declares me innocent. Free me from my troubles. Have mercy on me and hear my prayer. How long will you people ruin my reputation? How long will you make groundless accusations? How long will you continue your lies? Interlude You can be sure of this: The Lord set apart the godly for himself. The Lord will answer when I call to him. Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent. Interlude Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust the Lord. Many people say, “Who will show us better times?” Let your face smile on us, Lord. You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.”

Psalms 4:1-8 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

David wrote this psalm during a season when others were unjustly accusing him and damaging his reputation. He was experiencing the pain of betrayal and false accusations. Many of us can relate. At one time, I believed that if I truly loved God and loved people, everyone would love me in return. But the truth is—even among Christians—selfish agendas, jealousy, or fear can cause people to treat others unfairly.

In Psalm 4, David shows us how to respond when we’re under attack:

1. Always Run to God

When we face trouble, the worst thing we can do is run from God. Some people grow bitter, blame God, or even question His existence because of the hurtful actions of others. But God, in His wisdom, has given people free will. That means people can choose wrongly, and their sin doesn’t always receive immediate judgment. But be assured God keeps good books, and He will one day set everything right.

Running to God opens the door for understanding, healing, and peace.

2. The Lord Answers When We Call

David’s confidence was this: “The Lord will answer when I call to Him.” God hears every prayer and sees every tear. Even when His hand is unseen, His heart is still engaged. He is faithful, just, and holy. He rewards the righteous and judges the wicked—in His timing, not ours. Our role is to trust His timing.

3. Let God Work on Us

When we are attacked, our natural reaction is anger, bitterness, or even a desire for revenge. But God often uses these moments to do a deeper work in us. David wrote, “Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent.” In other words—pause, pray, and let God show us what needs to change in our own hearts. Surrendering our bitterness clears the way for God to work powerfully in our situation.

4. Rest in God’s Protection

David ends this psalm with a beautiful declaration: “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.” That’s the picture of true trust. Anxiety, worry, and fear are not gifts from God—they are the enemy’s tools to distract us from God’s promises. When we run to God, trust Him to answer, and let Him work in us, we find rest in His presence.

That’s how we can lay our head on the pillow at night and sleep in peace—knowing God is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, I want to always run to You. I trust You with every struggle in my life. Show me what needs to change in me so that Your work can be done in and through me. Help me rest in the confidence of Your presence, power, and provision. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”