Smoking Bones and Withered Grass

“For my days are consumed like smoke, and my bones are burned as an hearth. My heart is smitten, and withered like grass; so that I forget to eat my bread.” (Psalm 102:3-4 KJV)

Several times this week I have asked individuals: “how are you?” and with a twinkle in their eyes and faces smiling they responded: “I can’t complain. Even if I did, no one would listen.”

Our text passage is part of a prayer “complaint” of an afflicted, overwhelmed individual. We may not be clear about his situation, but we can identify with him. Our personal obligations and responsibilities sometimes collide with each other, demanding immediate attention and requiring other activities to wait.

Whether we are afflicted with issues beyond our control or overwhelmed with stress and responsibilities, we can always -- and I mean always -- complain to God and he will listen. He does pay attention to us and our cries of anguish. He promised that we can bring all our cares and cast them on him. He promised that we who are burdened and weary can come to him for rest. Praise God!

This has been a fast and furious week of stressful, impatient responsibility. In my opinion, it has been "consumed like smoke." My heart isn't smitten but I sort of feel like "withered grass." Thank God for his grace through it all! At least I haven't forgotten to eat. To all my readers, I apologize for letting the Courage Today devotionals slide this week. And I'm not complaining -- I've already done that to the Lord -- but I promise to be more diligent with posting these devotionals.

Dear Father, thank you for your grace and guidance. Empower us to recognize when we let our promises overload our obligations. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today giving it to the Lord,