DEVOTION: Grow in Confidence ~ Jan Cline

“The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom then shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?”
“I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” Psalm 27: 1, 13 & 14

This Psalm discloses David’s personal relationship with God. His experience reflects an ongoing attitude of confidence. Through all the trials and calamities of his life, David could look back on those days when God rescued him. He took courage in knowing he didn’t let fear diminish his faith. He understood that in order to accomplish God’s will he would need the confidence that only comes through capturing God’s character in his own life. It came to be as he sought God’s habitation daily.

The very powerful words the Lord gave to King David brought personal assurance and focus to his task at hand. God uses waiting to renew, refresh and teach. In our times of waiting, we are in a better position to hear the voice of God. As we hear his voice, we grow in confidence. With confidence we can express our talents and abilities in God’s power. This is how individuals and the church as a whole climbs to the next level of faith. If we have the courage to wait upon the Lord, we will see our prayers answered and his will accomplished.

David’s writings tell us he came to know God in a special way, earning God’s favor, and received a reward for his test of patience. As he accepted the gift of confidence, he continued to practice waiting and listening, taking hold of the power to be gained. Even though David faced circumstances that would cause most men to crumble, he leaned on the confidence he found in his deep relationship with God, and enjoyed victory again and again. He learned to throw confidence in the face of his enemies.

Fear consumes confidence. All things, seen and unseen, are subject to the glory of God. As we confront our fears and call upon the power of the Lord, we will see how unfounded they are in light of an almighty God. As we yield to Him, growing closer to Him, we find the confidence we long for. Listen as you wait—and, like David, you will hear God speak confidence into your life.

Let's Pray: Dear Lord, help me to wait. I want to face my fears. Open my eyes to see the confidence I need to serve you well. Thank you for being patient with me. 

Over to You: What is preventing you from waiting on God?



Jan Cline is an author and speaker from the Pacific Northwest, USA. She is also founder and director of the Inland NW Christian Writers conference and leads a writers group in her area. You may learn more about her at www.jancline.net.

Author of A Heart Out of Hiding
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