Please read today’s readings: 2 Samuel 12:1-14; Acts 19:21-41; Mark 9:14-29

Sometimes, it seems like God is sending us into trouble; other times, we manage to make the trouble for ourselves. No matter the source of the trouble, God is always the answer. When we sin—even so great a sin as King David’s—God is the answer. See how David did not cover up his sin, but confessed it: “I have sinned against the Lord.” Though there were consequences, the Lord put away David’s sin. He forgave him and freed him from guilt. That is not possible without God.

When we are in troubled situations, like Paul was in Asia because of the guild of silversmiths, or like so many thousands of people are in Texas because of Hurricane Harvey, God is the answer. Sometimes, it seems like local or national government is our help. Times can get so tough that it is difficult to believe that God will help, or that he is even there. But in the end, may a faithless generation see that Jesus has been with them all along.

May the Holy Spirit help our unbelief, giving us faith to believe in God’s answer to the troubles of life: Jesus Christ, who makes all things possible.

Prayer: We believe, Lord; help our unbelief. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Mark Ryman, Communications Coordinator for the NALC and Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Advance, NC. 

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