Lent Devotional

I'm Jessica Schoellkopf — wife to Mark and daughter of the Risen King! My hurt is family sadness, my habit is anger, and my hang-up is "my way." But God… His mercies are new every morning as He searches my heart and refines me. I am a work in progress. My parents brought me to Fellowship Bible Church in 1981. I became a Christian and was baptized here at a young age, but it wasn't until my mid-twenties that I stopped trying to do life "my way" and truly decided to follow Jesus as Lord of my life. After living away from Dallas for ten years, I have been back at the church since 2017. I have served in the Children's Ministry, been part of small groups that are family to me, and currently serve as a leader in the Women's Bible Study. And in the words of my friend Kendall Bergman: Hallelujah!

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The Lord is always protecting and providing, and He is always present (Emmanuel!). "Keep me safe, O God. For in You, I take refuge." David knows where his protection comes from and where to turn in times of anxiousness. Oftentimes in fear and anxiety, I seek refuge in material idols I think will bring me comfort or "my way" (see Dr. Tim's S.E.L.F. acronym) because it gives me a sense of control. But David warns that "sorrows will increase" when we run after other gods.

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God has kept us eternally safe because of what Jesus did on the cross. When we put our faith and trust in Jesus, He provides the refuge of eternal protection! No matter what happens in our lives, we do not have to fear or be anxious, nor do we need to seek refuge or control in other places. David understood this ultimate protection and was therefore satisfied with God's measured provision: "Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup…" (Not, "Well, I'm still waiting for what I asked You for.")

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I once read, "God does not want to rip us off. He wants to set us free, bless us like crazy, and protect us in ways we cannot begin to see this side of eternity. He wants it to go well for us (Deut. 4:39–40), and the key is obedience." God desires — and is worthy of — His glory, and He wants my good. Knowing this, I can surrender my wants to His will. Jesus modeled this obedience and surrender in going to the cross: "Not my will, but Yours be done." Because of this, He has made our lot secure! His free gift of salvation surely is our "delightful inheritance." No wealth, good health, or any other blessing could compare to the protection and provision we have in Jesus.

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Being confident of the Lord's protection and satisfied with His provision, David turns to praise, acknowledging His presence: [paraphrased] "You counsel and instruct me; You are always before me, always beside me at my right hand; I will not be shaken… My heart is glad, my tongue rejoices; my body will rest secure because You will not abandon me to the grave; You have made Your way known to me (Jesus!); You fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand." The Lord is always protecting and providing, and He is always present!

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When you find yourself requesting something from the Lord (a job, house, spouse, or change in circumstance), thank God for what He is already providing in your life — your "portion." Explore the possible situations or outcomes that God might be protecting you from by withholding or setting the "boundary lines in pleasant places." Finally, ask Him to make clear to you the reality of His presence during the trial. We can pray these prayers over our friends and families, too, honoring God and blessing them. Consider extending this worship time by listening to Christy Nockels' song, "Evermore."