Wednesday, August 5, 2026

Scripture

“Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.” Psalm 85:8

Reflections

Some think that if they take God seriously, God will take away all their fun.  They’ll be miserable.

That couldn’t be farther from the truth.  From the very beginning, life was meant to be enjoyed.  God gave Adam and Eve the garden to be enjoyed.  Jesus enjoyed celebrations and feasts with his disciples.  One can even imagine Jesus laughing with them.

When we do not follow in God’s ways, it’s common that someone will get hurt.  Humor and laughter will come at someone else’s expense.  Living a self-serving life leaves a person with little joy and a very cold heart.

The psalmist names that the Lord will speak peace to his people.  He will teach us how to make things right.  Instead of hatred and injury, we learn from him how to be loving and forgiving.  Instead of bringing about harm and destruction, we learn how to build up one another.  Instead of being mean-spirited, we learn how to be kind.

When we turn to him with our whole heart and listen to him through his word, we discover his way of peace.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for instructing me in your way of peace.  Thank you for promising to be with me this day as I seek to be a peacemaker of yours.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Psalm 85:8-13