Sundays | 9am & 10:30am | The Woodlands, TX

A Devo From Scot - Psalm 111


Dear Church,

Today begins a new week, and that week falls in early November of 2020. We saw some of this coming (election anxiety, drama and lack of clarity) but we didn’t see it all (virus, economy, job losses, depression, disconnection). Many mornings, and the beginning of every week, I have to intentionally remind myself of who I am, what I’m called to do, what I can do and what I can’t do. I can’t solve the problems of the world or take all of the air out of political pressures and people-group tensions…but I can remind you of God. I can gently and firmly call you back to God’s Word. So here we go.

In our progress through the Psalms this year, we come to Psalm 111 as if in some divinely ordained timing. It is so fitting and perfect for today. I ask that you read it today, hopefully three or four times. It is very short.

You’ll find in Psalm 111 a list of the spiritual ingredients that are unfailingly effective in moments of crisis. Read that line again. I said unfailingly. I meant it. I said crisis. I mean a crisis of any size; personal, relational, familial, ecclesial (church related), civic, political or national. Begin by asking God to give you the eyes to see these things and then prayerfully read and reread.

You’ll start with room temperature worship. Right where you are, right how you are. Gratitude is an essential part of worship and even though it's hard to find sometimes, it must be included. Don’t use worship without gratitude. Intentional memory, or recall, of the works of God is slowly and methodically added to this grateful worship. Stir it slow. It should double in size. Next you add meditation on God’s character - grace, compassion, provision and promises. This step is also slow. Take your time. The ingredient list ends with a flurry of spices that build layers of flavor and complexity: truth and justice performed in faithfulness and uprightness, redemption, reverent awe (fear), wisdom and good understanding.

The ending line is fantastic. It means that properly made, this recipe has an eternal shelf life. And it is that divine food that will sustain you through the most difficult crisis by connecting your wayward and confused heart to the sturdy and secure heart of God.

Now dropping the running analogy, I simply remind you of the battleground of your heart and mind. Forget states and percentages for now. Focus on your heart, your testimony, your humility, your relationships and your worship. It’s all about trust. Where are you placing yours?

I love you church,

Scot