What if the Lord had not been on our side when people attacked us? Psalms‬ ‭124‬:‭2‬

We are wired for relationship. From the very beginning God knew this. The only time he saw something was not good was when man was alone.

He created woman for relationship. Not just the marriage relationship, but relationship in the emotional, physical and spiritual realm.

But when sin entered our world, relationship was irreparably damaged. Greed, jealousy, shame and hopelessness replaced the unity, love and mercy of relationship. Faith, hope and love, the cornerstones, of relationship died.

We talk about how Jesus came to offer forgiveness of our sins and that is true, but the ultimate reason for that sacrifice was to restore relationships, first with God the Father, and then each other.

The effects of the pandemic are just now starting to bloom. Violence has increased. Distrust is at an all-time high. Fear and anger seem to run rampant.

Ironically, while we are wired for relationship, we also have a penchant for revenge.

When your beliefs are challenged. You may react defensively in the name of Jesus. (FYI, God doesn’t need our help in this regard.)

When you are told to do something you know is wrong. You are tempted to attack the person who is in charge.

When you are ridiculed and judged for your failures. You may feel guilty or anger at the person.

When your words of encouragement return void. You may try to shame those who didn’t respond as you’d hoped.

When you sit down at an empty lunch table at school and no one joins you. You listen to the lies that you’re not worthy.

When those times, come, remember the words of the Psalmist. God is on your side. Jesus is there with you and totally understands. The Holy Spirit will remind you of who you are if you listen to His voice.

The psalmist finishes his song with this reminder, “Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” (Psalms‬ ‭124‬:‭8‬)

The enemy voices have no power over you unless you choose to give them the power.