David and Paul both experienced God’s peace in the midst of hardship, suffering, conflict, trials and tribulations. Paul was frequently surrounded by people who were set on disabling his mission. David would frequently be surrounded by an army bent on killing him. Both remained at peace. David best expressed it in his famous “shepherd’s psalm.” Embrace this snippet.
“He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters” (Psalm 23:2).
I believe the key is willingness to be still and sit down on the inside; wait on the Lord in trusting faith, feed on His faithfulness and refreshing and worship continually. That’s reverence and appreciation.
RELEVANCE
Just before Jesus fed the 5,000 by multiplying five barley loaves and two small fish, He said a key thing to the disciples: “Make the people sit down” (John 6:10). He knew He was about to do something incredible. He wanted the people to appreciate it. More than that, He wanted them to appreciate Him.
The next day the proof came out. Some appreciated Him for what He did; others for WHO HE IS.
“Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him” (John 6:26-27).
REFLECT AND RELATE
Why do you appreciate the Lord?
What has He done for you?
Who is He to you?
What have you done for Him?
REFERENCES
John 6:35-61