Knowing God

You, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts my head high. I cried out to the Lord, and he answered me from his holy mountain. I lay down and slept. I woke up in safety, for the Lord was watching over me. . . . Victory comes from you, O Lord. May your blessings rest on your people.

Psalm 3:3-5, 8

At times the world paints a distorted picture of the Lord. In fact, misrepresentation occurs more often than not. In order for us to get a clear picture of God, we must read the Bible. In his Word, we are able to get an accurate representation of who he is and of how he operates. For instance, in this one passage from Psalm 3 we learn the following:

• The Lord is our shield. He protects us, defends us, and guards us.
• The Lord is the One who lifts our heads high. We do not have to be ashamed as we follow him.
• He answers us when we cry out and watches over us when we sleep. What comfort there is in knowing that he is ever present.
• Victory and blessings come from him.

These are true statements about the Lord and his character on which our confidence can rest. As we internalize these and other truths about God that we find throughout the Scriptures, we gain a deeper knowledge of who he is and how he operates. The Word helps us to know him better and better.

FATHER, help me to take the time to read and learn of you from your Word. Show me your true self —who you are and how you operate. Help me, Father, to be assured of your protection and watchful eye. Open my heart to your truth so that I can know and trust you more.

Life’s major pursuit is not knowing self . . . but knowing God. . . . Unless God is the major pursuit of our lives, all other pursuits are dead-end streets, including trying to know ourselves. CHARLES R. SWINDOLL (B. 1934)

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The One Year Bible Readings for today are 1 Chronicles 1:1–2:17; Acts 23:11-35; Psalm 3:1-8; and Proverbs 18:14-15.