It’s amazing how God’s Scripture always speaks to just when you need it, at just the right times and moments of life—that is, if you are reading it.

Reading God’s Word and meditating upon it is so important.  In fact, that is the formula for success God gave Joshua (Joshua 1:8).

Life is busy though and we live in a world in which distractions demand our time.  Setting aside time for devotion is so important and it’s important that we do it each day.  But even when you forget and don’t sit down in the time you normally would, still make time later to study God’s Word.

This week, I have been praying for clarity and focus, and as I studied God’s Word today it came to me.

David writes in Psalm 71:17-18:

“O God, You have taught me from my youth, And I still declare Your wondrous deeds.  And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to all who are to come.”

As I prepare to speak again this Sunday morning, I have been praying for clarity and focus and decisiveness for approach, method, and emphasis.

And God gave me the insight I needed today as I read Psalm 71.  My job is to declare:

• God’s amazing, wondrous (wonderful) deeds
• God’s strength to this current generation
• and God’s power

Reading the recently released Bonhoeffer biography reminded me that when we read God’s Word, we are to always ask ourselves, “What is God’s Word saying to me right now?”

Sometimes we get too focused on the high concept stuff when the basics matter most.  People are searching for the truth and for answers.  Many people are desperate.  They are in need of God.  They are in need of miracles in their every day life.  So what do they need to hear about?  God’s wonderful deeds, His strength, and His power.

Amen!