Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust. – Psalm 40:4
Today, people think about fathers. What kind of father did you have growing up? And, if you’re a dad, what kind of father are you? There are fantastic fathers, terrible fathers and somewhere-in-between fathers. Most are the latter. Today’s verse says, “Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust.” If you put your trust in the Lord, you are blessed, and consequently so are all within your influence.
Jesus described God as the Heavenly Father. God is love. He is also Holy. He disciplines his children in two ways. There’s positive discipline where the son or daughter consistently applies the Father’s truths. And there’s negative discipline when He steers His children in the right direction through hardship. Hebrews says to endure hardship as discipline (Hebrews 12:7).
Jim Rohn, an inspirational speaker, said, “We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons.” Someone who is disciplined is consistent in doing what’s right. Christian disciplines such as Bible reading, prayer, fasting, worship, Christian fellowship and good works are something you should practice on a regular basis.
In setting goals, remember the most important is to seek God. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). A blessed person practices Christian disciplines. The United States has many types of leaders with many different aspirations. Pray that your Heavenly Father will put leaders in place who are disciplined in His ways.
Today’s Verse: Psalm 40:4
Blessed is the man who makes
the Lord his trust,
who does not turn to the proud,
to those who go astray after a lie!
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Proverbs 3:1-12
My son, do not forget my teaching,
but let your heart keep my commandments,
2 for length of days and years of life
and peace they will add to you.
3 Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you;
bind them around your neck;
write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 So you will find favor and good success
in the sight of God and man.
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
6 In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
7 Be not wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
8 It will be healing to your flesh
and refreshment to your bones.
9 Honor the Lord with your wealth
and with the firstfruits of all your produce;
10 then your barns will be filled with plenty,
and your vats will be bursting with wine.
11 My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline
or be weary of his reproof,
12 for the Lord reproves him whom he loves,
as a father the son in whom he delights.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
