Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“Many are the torments of the wicked,
but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.”
NL Daily Devotion for Saturday, January 1, 2022
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
Happy new year! We’re all subject to the torments of the wicked, aren’t we. We’re told over and over again in a thousand different ways that we’re not good enough. Thus we make resolutions to become good enough in the new year. We’ll exercise more, eat better, take up a new hobby, work harder, make more money, do whatever it takes to be “acceptable” in the eyes of the world, although these messages are so internalized, we believe we are doing it for ourselves. When we buy into the idealized unreality of what the world tries to sell us, we are tormented indeed.
Maybe this year we can resolve not to make resolutions, but instead rest in the steadfast love of God, whose truth destroys the deceptions of the world. This new year, may you know you are loved exactly as you are, and trust God to lead you where you need to go.
Are there ways the negative messages of the world make me feel unworthy?
When do I find myself most in need of good self-care?