Advent Devotional: Dec 7
Psalm 21 | Genesis 15:1-18 | Matthew 12:33-37
The king rejoices in your strength, Lord. How great is his joy in the victories you give! (Psalm 21:1)
Have you ever heard anyone say that God helps those who help themselves? I think the idea behind this saying is that we should do more than ask God for help. We should also take the initiative to work for the things we need in life. Then as we work, God blesses and provides for us.
There are a few problems with this saying for Christians. First, you cannot find it in scripture. It is not a part of the Christian faith. Second, people who can truly help themselves do not need help from God. It is actually human nature to forget God when things go well or when we have everything we need (Deuteronomy 8:10-18). Finally, it has always been God helping us before we can do anything for ourselves. If I have skill, intelligence, or the ability to work hard it is only because God has already given me those things. If I follow Jesus and seek to live the way he taught us to live, it is only because God loved me first and has invited me to respond to his love (1 John 4:19).
The king of Israel had wealth and power. He had people who took care of the livestock, harvested food, and fought in his army. The king was able to help himself. But the psalmist says that the king took joy in the strength of the Lord God - not in his own strength or in the strength of his people. The king understood that any success or victory Israel experienced was given by God. Israel’s king was not responsible for winning victories. He was responsible for remaining faithful to God; but even his faithfulness was a gift from God. The king was only able to be faithful because God had told his ancestors what faithfulness is.
God helps those who listen to him and believe, like Abram (Genesis 15:6). God helps those who love him, like King David. God helps those who seek after his goodness and turn away from evil (Matthew 12:33). In Jesus, God extends help, grace, and mercy to everyone who will follow him!
Reflection questions: How has God been a help to you? How have you responded to his help and his love? How is God inviting you to grow in faith this season?
Readings from the Revised Common Lectionary
Scripture taken from Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011, Biblica, Inc.
Reflections by Rev. Serena J. Wolfe
