Daily Devotionals

november 24, 2021

He trains my hands for war,
so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
You have given me the shield of your salvation,

and your right hand supported me,
and your gentleness made me great.

 
Psalm 18:34-35

I am grateful for being tired. 
 
If I am tired, that means I have been doing something—or doing many things. I was exerting energy because I had energy to give. My arms were strong, breath was in my body, and determination was in my heart. I could fight battles on behalf of someone who perhaps was unable to fight. I had the capacity to make decisions so that other people could move forward with their own plans. Because I was trained and engaged, I could share a sense of calm where there may have been anxiety or confusion. 
 
Yes, oddly enough, I see gratitude in exhaustion. If you are tired, take a minute to look back at this day, this week, this season of your life. How did God prepare your heart and hone your skills to meet the needs around you? Because truly, He did just that. He made you ready and gave you the abilities to move in this world in specific ways and places and to do things which no one else could do. 
 
While God equipped you for those unique actions, He also supported you. Look back at our scripture: “Your right hand supported me, and your gentleness made me great.” Everything that made you tired, God was right there beside you at that time. His gentle ways will bring you restoration, a time and opportunity to slow down, to repair and regroup. And the greatness of your “doing” is found in the gentleness with which you start. 

For Reflection


What makes you tired? Lots of responsibilities or family needs? Work stress or physical demands?


How can you recognize gratitude in the midst of those swirling needs?

Prayer


God, make me ready for action today. Let me be gentle in my actions, calm and generous toward those who need me. Also, help me find rest in You. When I feel weary, help me understand just how beautifully You work through me. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Mary Hoffman
Senior Music Ministry Director
404-842-5814