Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails and the fields produce not food,
though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Saviour.
The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to tread on the heights.
Father in Heaven,
You are the Sovereign LORD of all things and all people. You are our God and our Saviour. You have blessed us in so many ways. We live in peace, we have more than enough to live comfortably, we have family and friends and fellowship of the saints at our church. We have a beautiful Saviour who intercedes for us even now. But in this world we also face many tribulations; sickness, loneliness, broken relationships, financial worries, bereavement. Thank you for giving us the strength to deal with our everyday challenges. Thank you for showing us that we can have confidence and good cheer in all circumstances. Let us be like Paul who says: “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Phil. 4:11-13) May we always remember this promise of the faith.
In Christ’s name. AMEN.