US Sports Network News!

Psalm 9:7-10

As far as children can tell, their mom and dad know everything and can do anything. And kids typically don’t question that assumption without reason (for example, if they see a parent mishandle a situation or someone else influences their level of trust). Parents demonstrate reliability by consistently providing shelter, food, and safety—and also by lovingly teaching, comforting, and guiding their sons and daughters. Then the children can sleep in peace, knowing their needs will be met.

Likewise, we know that we can trust our heavenly Father because He has shown Himself trustworthy from the beginning of time. Psalm 119:90 says, “[God’s] faithfulness continues throughout generations.” He has never broken a promise, and His plans for us have always been for our good (Jeremiah 29:11; Romans 8:28). What’s more, God understands our weaknesses and never asks us to do anything that He won’t help us accomplish (Hebrews 4:15; Isaiah 41:10). We can trust that even in the worst situations, He will be with us (Psalm 46:1).

What does trusting God look like in your life this week? Where can you relinquish control to Him?

Bible in One Year: Psalm 15-18

1 Samuel 15:10-23

Nowadays, when we come across the word sacrifice, we probably think of giving up our time or resources—not killing an animal on an altar, watching its blood pour out, and smelling its flesh burn. But in the Old Testament, that’s what God required for the Israelites’ atonement. Sacrifice provided a way to purify the spiritual stain of sin and restore a right relationship with God.

You’d think the unpleasantness of burnt offerings would have made people hesitate before sinning so that they’d choose obedience instead. But humans have always wrestled with temptation. Just look at Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:1-24. God created a perfect world, free of sin. And yet He knew we’d make mistakes, so He provided a way for us to be right with Him again—through the gift of sacrifice and His Son. Of course, our Father would prefer we didn’t sin in the first place, but He always forgives us when we come before Him with a “broken and contrite heart” (Ps. 51:17 NIV). He loves us and wants the best for us—which includes being spiritually healthy, free, and full of joy.

Jesus told the disciples, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Let us love and trust God enough to obey Him, keeping our heart and conscience pure and our connection with Him strong.

Bible in One Year: Psalm 8-14