Day 7

Read: 

Psalm 22

Dig Deeper:

This Psalm may feel a bit dark since our goal is to reignite our sense of Wonder, but the reason for it's gruesome and depressive descriptions may actually surprise you. Notice that the author describes some type of difficult and drawn out form of execution. He is not only beaten down physically, but also emotionally. He is beaten and even had some type of sharp object driven through his hands and feet. His own clothes are taken from him and are distributed by the casting of lots.

If this sounds familiar, that's because it's describing the crucifixion of Jesus before it ever even happened! As Jesus was on the cross, He actually quoted this very scripture solidifying his ties to this prophetic poetry when he said, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?" Mark's Gospel recounts these specific words as Jesus said them in Aramaic. It translates to: "My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?" Writing this in Jesus' spoken language is the writer's own way of creating a linguistic highlight for us, showing us just how important this moment was.

Such a dark description is found in this Psalm because it was the darkest day in history. But, it's funny how God can take even the darkest of moments and turn them around for good.

Isaiah 9 reminds us that because of Jesus, "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned."

God can take and redeem even the darkest of moments and use them for good, not just for one or two people, but sometimes, even to alter the course of history. And remember, God doesn't just do that for a few people here or there. According to Romans 8:28, He offers redemption to all who believe in Him.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28, NIV

What do you need God to turn around for good today? If we believe that He keeps his promises, then we know that He will.

Declaration: Say this next statement out loud as a declaration of what you have learned today.

God brings light to my darkness. He'll take the bad moments and turn them around for good.

Pray:

God, thank You that you can redeem even my darkest moments. I pray that your light would shine in the darkness. Help me to see You and find hope in You. I am trusting You with every moment of my life. Amen.