God: the maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them,

God: who is faithful forever, who gives justice to people who are oppressed, who gives bread to people who are starving!

The Lord: who frees prisoners. The Lord: who makes the blind see. The Lord: who straightens up those who are bent low. The Lord: who loves the righteous. The Lord: who protects immigrants, who helps orphans and widows, but who makes the way of the wicked twist and turn!

The Lord will rule forever! Zion, your God will rule from one generation to the next! Praise the Lord!

Psalm 146:6-10

Sometimes the things we want overwhelm us — an iPhone, Starbucks, or new Nikes. After all, our friends have these things, and we want to fit in. But where does God fit in? Does God need for you to have a double shot iced caramel macchiato?

God provides beyond material stuff. God protects, feeds, frees, and heals. As we read Psalm 146, we realize God stands up for the handicapped, the foreigners, and the poor. Imagine what would happen if we took the money and time we spend with stuff and use it as God would. We could feed the hungry. We could speak up for those who are hurting. We wouldn’t allow the people around us to bully others. Each of us has gifts and talents to help someone else.

God’s promises often come through the actions of regular people doing what Jesus did. Do your part to let go of things and embrace people who might give you nothing in return.

Stacie Whalen

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