Psalm 59:1, 6-10, 14-17 (NLT) 1Rescue me from my enemies, O God. Protect me from those who have come to destroy me. ... 6They come out at night, snarling like vicious dogs as they prowl the streets. 7Listen to the filth that comes from their mouths; their words cut like swords. “After all, who can hear us?” they sneer. 8But LORD, you laugh at them. You scoff at all the hostile nations. 9You are my strength; I wait for you to rescue me, for you, O God, are my fortress. 10In his unfailing love, my God will stand with me. He will let me look down in triumph on all my enemies. ... 14My enemies come out at night, snarling like vicious dogs as they prowl the streets. 15They scavenge for food but go to sleep unsatisfied. 16But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress. 17O my Strength, to you I sing praises, for you, O God, are my refuge, the God who shows me unfailing love.
Years ago we had a little dachshund who perceived himself to be somewhat akin to a Rottweiler or pit-bull on the scale of bravery. He enjoyed playing with a pull toy, growling and snarling profusely. Unfortunately his wagging tail gave him away every time. Unlike our little Flea, there are those in the world who would scoff at Christians with cruelty in their words. Their insults sting, and the words from their lips cause pain and discouragement.
Our Bible passage today offers comfort and hope. The Lord sees through the chatter of the world. They may snarl like dogs, but God provides the refuge and comfort we need. We can fully rely on our gracious Lord to strengthen our daily walk with Him.
Gracious Heavenly Father, our LORD God Almighty,
Comfort us when our hearts grow weary. Quiet the chatter of the world, and comfort us with your Word. Strengthen us to walk anew with You. Fill us with your joy.
In the Name of Jesus Christ, our LORD and Savior, Amen.
The devotion Snarling Like Dogs was undated but originally written for Maranatha Devotional Guide, an Advent Christian Publication https://acgc.us As the original author of this devotion, I reserve the right to update and share it on my current devotional blog Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com
Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com
Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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