NIV 365-Day Devotional Plan (2017)Sample

THE ROCK HIGHER THAN I

Aware of his own fragility, the psalmist longed for the stability and security he could find in God — his rock of strength. God is unshakable. He is unalterable in his purposes — not at all fazed by opposition or resistance. Nothing can challenge his strength. The psalmist was wise to recognize his own vulnerability, turning to lean on someone whose position is forever fixed — trusting in his immovable God.

The New Testament compares Jesus to a spiritual rock — identifying him as the source that once sustained Moses and the Israelites liberated from Egypt (1Co 10:4). From this rock, they enjoyed a miraculous supply of desperately needed water (Nu 20:6 – 11). Jesus provides life for people without hope. All who call on him and believe in his name will be saved (Ro 10:13). Jesus is also referred to as a rock that makes people stumble (1Pe 2:8). Even today his uncompromising call to repentance causes some people to reject him because they love sin and the stuff of earth. Jesus’ clear message of salvation through his name alone is too much for many people to accept — they refuse to put faith in him as the long-awaited Messiah.

Jesus, I am vulnerable, but you are not. You are my rock, and I pray that by depending fully on you for protection and provision, I may lead others to do the same. Amen.

Taken fromNIV The Jesus Bible