But...He

BUT . . . HE

 

But . . . He chose David his servant . . . to be the shepherd of his people Jacob. (Psalm 78:68, 70–71)

 

            READING PSALM 78 REVEALS A SAD, depressing story of the faithlessness of Israel. These were a people who were disobedient before God. Just when the story seemed most hopeless, along came a leader chosen by God, and the trajectory of faithlessness was averted. Although God disciplined His people, He did not abandon them. He ultimately redeemed them and their rebellious behavior by providing for them a skillful leader who shepherded them with integrity of heart.

A successful, competent school principal finds the best teacher to deal with the most difficult class. Why? Because he or she wants to be assured that this class will have the best chance of succeeding. That is most possible when they have a competent, caring teacher who can skillfully guide the students toward accomplishing their learning tasks.

In the same way, we can rest assured that though we, too, have been faithless, difficult followers of God, He will provide for us in a loving way that will bring forth the hope He has planned for us. The best part of our story is “but He. . . .”

 

—Sharon Westfall

 

Ask God to reveal His redeeming action in your life.