February 11

“But You’ll welcome us with open arms when we run for cover to you.  Let the party last all night! Stand guard over our celebration. You are famous, God, for welcoming God-seekers, for decking us out in delight”. (MSG)

We all may have our favourite items we like to wear, and feel special when we put them on, but delight?  That is not something we generally think to be decked out in!  Yet listen to what is actually contained in the very fabric of delight—pleasure, happiness, joy and glee—gladness, excitement, and elation. Those are some pretty special accessories to clothe ourselves with every day and this is what God wants to do for you!

When you run to Your Beloved God for cover, He doesn’t just hide you from the circumstances that caused you to run to Him in the first place.  He opens wide His arms, wrapping them around you, while speaking words of love and hope, bringing healing to your heart. 

All the while He is making new garments for you—something you could never purchase for yourself. Instead of sorrow— unspeakable joy.  Instead of humiliation and shame—double honour and beauty. Instead of doubt and despair—an eternal hope that does not disappoint.

Run to Him dear heart, no matter how heavy the burden feels, or how deep the piercing pain. His promise to you is that He will transform and renew.  He will never leave you or forsake you and His love will see you through.

Why, you’ll be celebrating from morning to night, when you see the wonder of what is in sight.  Rejoice Precious One, it’s true.  The God Who loves you is famous for it and oh the bounty of beauty, He has planned for you!

Prayer:

Dearest Father and Lord, how wonderful You are—how giving and how kind!  I thank You today that Your arms are open wide, ready, and waiting always, to receive us in Your loving embrace.

I come to You now Lord, bringing my problems and my pain, for in You I know they are transformed in joy.

I bring my purpose as well Lord, what You have planned from the beginning of time, and I ask that You would empower me to serve You and others, as only You can do.

Thank You loving Father, for loving me so well.  Thank you Jesus for saving, healing, restoring my life and yes, for decking me out in delight!

I receive it all with you, in Your Holy and precious Name!