PSALM 71:5

For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth.

TO PONDER

Any of us born into and raised in a Christian family can very likely relate easily to this verse from Psalm 71.

We were most probably all baptised at an early age, not a decision we were able to consider or consciously make for ourselves, but clearly becoming one of God’s children was of paramount importance to our parents which laid the first strong foundational bricks in our faith.  I distinctly recall our daily family evening devotions from a young age where me and my five siblings would sit with Dad and Mum, while Dad read us a story from our family Children’s Bible and we would then pray.

These family Bible stories and teachings strengthened my foundations further together with our regular attendance at Sunday School whilst Mum and Dad worshiped each week. You possibly also attended some form of Youth group on a regular basis and then undertook a confirmation course studying God’s word and learning more about the Lutheran faith and beliefs through Luther's Small Catechism. This course culminated in our public acknowledgement to our local congregation, family and friends as we were confirmed and attended the Lord’s table for the very first time.

I, and I’m sure any of you who share a similar story can consider ourselves extremely fortunate. This upbringing cultivated a deep sense of trust and reliance on God from early on as we embarked on our life journey here on earth. Just as the psalmist found hope and confidence in God from their youth, we too can reflect on our own experiences with God. How God has been our source of hope and confidence in times of uncertainty. How placing our trust in God and growing in our faith provides us with comfort and strength, knowing that God is our steadfast support, offering hope and confidence in every situation.

And whether this picture above resonates for you or not, the same confidence in God (irrespective of when you became His child) exists for all believers. God is our rock, our salvation and as we grow in our faith He becomes even more so our refuge in older years. Just like the psalmist found hope and confidence in Him, we too can share in these same gifts today, tomorrow and always.

PRAYER:God of hope. Teach me to understand the importance of nurturing a relationship with You so I too can share in the hope and confidence that You provide to me and all my fellow believers today, tomorrow and always. In your precious name I pray.  Amen.

Today's devotion written by Shane Burdack, LifeWay Epping