Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope. My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. The arrogant mock me unmercifully, but I do not turn from your law. I remember, Lord, your ancient laws, and I find comfort in them. Indignation grips me because of the wicked, who have forsaken your law. Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge. In the night, Lord, I remember your name, that I may keep your law. This has been my practice: I obey your precepts.
—Psalms 119:49-56

~~~~~

Zayin ז: By His Sword
By Jennifer Kane

I’ve seen a whole life shake,
seen hearts break,
felt hope unravel like thread pulled loose,
felt the worries stop breath like a noose.

But then—
the Word.
Not ink on a page, not history told,
but living, breathing, stronger than gold.
Sharper than steel, it carves through the night,
slicing the chains, flooding with light.

When fear grips tight, it speaks release.
When doubt creeps in, it whispers peace.
When I stumble, it lifts.
When I’m weak, it shifts
my focus back to the One who speaks—
and suddenly, the storm shrinks.

Because His Word?
It does not falter.
It does not fade.
It does not break, nor bend, nor change.
It’s fire in my bones,
a lamp to my feet,
the anchor that holds when the waves repeat.

It is manna in famine, a sword in the fight,
the breath in my lungs, the dawn after night.
It is promise unshaken, the refuge I need,
the unyielding truth that makes my heart freed.

So let the winds rage—
I will stand.
For His Word stands forever,
by His Word, I am held.
By His Word, I am strengthened.
By His Word, I am well.

~~~~~

Scriptures: Psalms 119:49-56

We trust that what God has spoken will surely come to pass. In times of affliction, recall God’s faithfulness and be reassured. God calls His people to hold onto His promises and pray them back to Him.

When we face difficulties, it is easy to be overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. But like the psalmist, we can anchor our hope in God’s Word. His promises do not change with circumstances; they remain steadfast and true. Scripture is not only a source of encouragement but a wellspring of life. It breathes new strength into weary souls and refreshes those who are burdened. What promises of God give you hope in times of trouble? How can you turn them into prayers today?

The psalmist faces opposition from the proud, those who mock his trust in God. Despite this, he remains steadfast, refusing to abandon God’s law. His confidence is rooted in remembering God’s past faithfulness.

In a world that often ridicules faith, it takes courage to stand firm. Yet, our strength does not come from ourselves but from recalling God’s past works. He has never failed His people, and He will not fail us now. When opposition arises, we should not shrink back but press on, knowing that God’s Word is our firm foundation. Have you ever felt mocked for your faith? How did you respond? What past works of God encourage you to stand strong?

The psalmist is troubled by those who reject God’s Word, yet he remains joyful, making God’s statutes his song. Even in the darkest hours, he remembers God and finds peace in obedience.

God’s Word is more than rules; it is our source of joy, our song in the night. When trials come, we can choose to dwell in despair or to sing God’s truths. Pilgrims on a journey need encouragement, and the Scriptures provide that nourishment for our souls. How can you make God’s Word your song in the night? What passages bring you peace and joy?

Psalm 119:49-56 reveals that God’s Word is a source of both comfort and strength. When affliction comes, His promises sustain us. When opposition arises, His faithfulness keeps us standing firm. And in our darkest moments, His statutes become our song.

Let us hold fast to God’s Word, remembering that it is not just ink on a page but the living breath of God, speaking life and hope into our hearts.

~~~~~

Heavenly Father, thank You for the comfort and strength found in Your Word. Help me to hold onto Your promises in times of trouble, to stand firm in the face of opposition, and to rejoice in Your truths even in the darkest nights. May Your Word be my hope, my strength, and my song. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 18 2025