Day 4: On this rock
In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for He grants sleep to those He loves (Psalm 127:2).
Sovereign Lord, Ancient of Days, Before the mountains were born or You brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting You are God (Psalm 90:2). You did not create this world to be our permanent habitation— The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever (1 John 2:17).
You have given us the only sure Foundation that will last when this world is gone: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic” (Isaiah 28:16). And on this Rock You have instructed us to build, and not on the shifting sands of time (Matthew 7:24-27).
Yet, humans have insisted on building our own cities— our own towers that reach to the heavens— on our own foundations of rebellion, arrogance, and pride, so that we may make a name for ourselves (Genesis 11:4). But You have clearly told us: Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain (Psalm 127:1).
O Lord, lead us away from the temptation to vain toil, rising up early and staying up late, in pursuit of food that spoils (Psalm 127:2, John 6:27). Deliver us from the towering drivers that ultimately destroy our families, ruin our relationships, snare our souls.
Free us from the tyranny of obsessive greed, consuming ambition, controlling competition. Give us wisdom, prudence, and godliness with contentment (1 Timothy 6:6). Teach us to honor You with our work, and trust You with our needs.
Remind us that we toil in vain except we build on the sure foundation. Remind us that You are our portion— You grant sleep to those You love (Psalm 127:2). Teach us to maintain the balance and priorities that would cause us to value others and glorify You in all areas of our lives.
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