Psalm 50:14b-15 “Fulfill your vows to the Most High and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”

God summons all heaven and earth to proclaim how he will judge his people. He asks them for thank you offerings, not sacrifices. God rebukes the wicked, who make animal sacrifices but forget God in their daily actions. He warns them of the dire consequences of their hypocrisy and deceit. To those who sacrifice thank offerings, He will show his salvation.

Everyone has experienced days of depression or despair. It is a feeling that God has abandoned us. It could be an overwhelming adversity or maybe the death of a family member or close friend. How could God let this happen to me? What have I done to deserve this? These may be our questions. I have been at that point and had those feelings. It was a feeling of hopelessness. I felt that there was no underlying support in my life, but we all know that God is always there for us. It is at this time that I called on God to help me. I renewed my prayer life. I started reading scripture, saying prayers, and reflecting on what it said to me in my situation at the time. Over a couple of weeks, I felt great comfort in those readings and came to the realization that God was indeed speaking to me and supporting me. I have continued my prayer life and have grown closer to God.

We are invited to remember God’s place in our life. He created us in his image. He sent us his Son, who conquered death when he was crucified for our sins. He is always there for us. Maintain a prayerful life at all times. Keep the lines of communications open with God. Remember that communication is a two-way street. Don’t do all the talking. Let God talk to you in quiet meditation. I find that special time to be very comforting. When we call on him, he will be there to support us and we will honor him.

Mark Comfort