Psalm 85:8-13 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 85:8-13 on biblegateway.com
Verse 8Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.
Verse 9Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.
Verse 10Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other.
Verse 11Faithfulness will spring up from the ground, and righteousness will look down from the sky.
Verse 12The Lord will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase.
Verse 13Righteousness will go before him, and will make a path for his steps.
Devotion
The psalms offer us many instances of comfort, reminding us of the steadfast love and faithfulness of the Lord that brings the “peace of God that surpasses all understanding” into our lives. Psalm 85:8 reminds us that God the Lord will speak peace to those who remain faithful and turn to God in their hearts. The psalmist affirms confidently: “Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.” (vs. 9)
Over and over again, we are invited to turn to the Lord for comfort and consolation. Our doubts and our fears are not to remain with us. They are not to overwhelm and rule over us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as Martin Luther reminds us in his Small Catechism, you have asked us to pray and have promised to hear us. When we pray, we are always encouraged by your compassion and care. For this we humbly thank you. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.