Believe & Speak

Believe & Speak


Episode 100

November 17, 2021

Last Sunday, my pastor’s adult son gave the sermon. D.J. is a brand-new dad, and he shared a sermon illustration worth repeating—especially in light of our focus on God’s promise to hold us and ensure that we are provided for and protected.
D.J. said there have been times when he cradles his newborn son, attempting to quiet the infant’s screaming but nothing works. The young father knows his baby isn’t hungry or messy. Daddy knows his baby’s every need has been met. But the crying infant will turn purple screaming anyway. He simply doesn’t comprehend that he’s in the arms of a loving father who would do anything to protect and provide for his child. The baby does not yet recognize that the one holding him is attentive to his every need and stands ready not only to meet those needs but to cradle and comfort with tender compassion.
In the same way, our Heavenly Father holds onto us. Psalm 145:14 says, “The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.” Verse 18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” And verse 19 tells us that God hears our cries and saves us. He hears our cries, so we don’t have to turn purple from incessant screaming. Psalm 145:14 says, “The Lord upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.” (NIV)
Look to our trustworthy Lord, my friend. He stands ready to meet your needs and fulfill your desires. Picture yourself resting in the arms of God, and acknowledge that he will provide for and protect you. Quiet your cries and repeat today’s declaration instead.
With the 100th episode of the Believe & Speak podcast, I decided to change things up a little. I want to give a shout out to my talented son, Scott Bryant, who wrote and produced the new music you heard for the first time with this episode. Scott created the stinger you’ll hear with each open and close, and also the two instrumental tracks. He created a brighter score to accompany the Scripture readings and a more contemplative musical piece to underscore the prayer. Thank you, Scott!
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
This week's scripture: Psalm 145:13-19
 
Discover the healing power of Psalm 139 in my book, Longing to Belong: Discovering the Joy of Acceptance.
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