Mercy Road Daily Prayer & Bible Reading ~ Thursday, May 3, 2012



The LORD said to Aaron, “You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any share among them; I am your share and your inheritance among the Israelites. ~ Numbers 17:20

Lord God,

You are my portion, my inheritance, my most valued treasure. What more could I ask for than you? What more could I desire? What more could my wandering feet pursue? What more could my coveting eyes seek? Does this world have anything that compares to your beauty, any riches that come close to your grace? Is there anyone else who could love me as fully as you, or forgive my sin and selfishness so completely? While the things of this world, like beauty, power, fortune, and fame, each promise comfort, contentment, and joy, they all fall short and fail. None of those things can live up to the blessings you give to me, or provide me with all that I need.

None of those things can redeem me from sin, or heal the brokenness and guilt that it has caused. None of those things can shower me with your grace and provide the forgiveness that I need. However, you, Lord God, give me more than I need. You provide much more than I rightly deserve. As if it weren’t enough for you to preserve my life, and provide for my protection and care, you apply your redemption, forgiveness, and grace through Jesus Christ. Though my rebellious soul grumbles and complains against you, you bless me in ways that I don’t even know, with benefits too numerous to count. So why is it Lord, that I struggle to find satisfaction and peace? Why is my heart not content with you?



None of those things can redeem me from sin, or rescue me from the guilt that leaves behind. None of those things can renew my soul and restore my relationship with you. But, you, Lord God, give me more than I need. You provide much more than I rightly deserve. As if it weren’t enough for you to preserve my life, and care for me, you apply your redemption, forgiveness, and grace through Jesus Christ. Though I’ve rebelled against you and complained about your provision, you’ve continued to bless me in ways that I don’t even know, with benefits too numerous to count.

But why is it Lord, that I struggle so much with disappointment? Why is my heart never satisfied with you? Why can’t I learn to be content with where you’ve put me, and what you’ve given me, instead of always wanting more? Why do I envy my neighbor’s success, or covent more wealth and possessions? Why do I think I need all the bigger, better, faster, stronger, newer, more efficient things this world promotes? Why do I need the praise of others and the acceptance of those around me? Why can’t I just find joy and peace in who you are, instead of chasing after the false hopes and dreams of this life?

I know that’s what I want, Lord God, and what I really need; but I confess that my spirit is too weak to seek you on my own, so I need your help and your power. Please give me joy, Lord. Give me your peace. Give me contentment in you. Be my portion, my inheritance, and my share, through Jesus Christ, my Lord.

Amen!