Signposts: Daily Devotions

Written by Larry Pray

Sunday, November 2

So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today.
—Matthew 6:34

There are not too many verses of scripture that cause me to laugh. But this is one of them. The world has just about all the trouble either it or perhaps even God can handle. There are wars, disagreements, economic catastrophes, environmental crises, political juggernauts, and headlines gloomy and disconcerting enough to make us cry. Truly there is no shortage of trouble.

Although we know our parents, grandparents and great grandparents also had their fair share of troubles, we are grateful that Jesus has a word for us. Worry adds to the burden the day is already carrying.

It would be better to laugh, better to do something constructive, better to trust that we are loved despite the odds against us, better to spend some time singing, and better to spend some time in prayer.

When I was in seminary, trying to make ends meet while studying full time and working whatever jobs I could find, my wife and I were raising four children. One evening it was Emily's chance to say grace. She was about four years old at the time.

We all held hands and  bowed our heads and she began to pray.

"Dear God," she said. "Thank you for the hot dogs. And thank you for the beans. And good luck."

Needless to say, we broke out laughing.

Today, as we ask for God's blessing let's not forget to also hold God in our prayers. After all, today has its troubles and perhaps even God could use a blessing.

Almighty God, we take ourselves so seriously. Help us remember that love is the truth, that life is a blessing. Amen.