The Lighthouse Devotional
Author: Damian Roach
SCRIPTURE PASSAGE
“Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain” (Ps 127:1 NIV).
PERSONAL REFLECTION
As I reflect on today’s Scripture verse, the English hymn writer Frederick W. Faber’s lyrics come to mind: “One God! One Majesty! There is no God but Thee! Unbounded, unextended Unity!”
SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
When we pay careful attention to Solomon’s words in this Scripture passage, an undeniable truth emerges—the spiritual work of God must be the foundation of every human endeavor. Nothing can be originated, established, or secured without His divine permission. God’s sovereignty is eminent. He is the source of ability and strength to all who labor.
Therefore, true worshippers of God should earnestly desire to commit their ways to the Lord. Moses, the man of God, expresses this sentiment when he prays: “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands” (Ps 90:17).
We live in a world that communicates an opposing message that praises the strain of self-effort and attributes the success of every finished work to human beings made in the image of God. Like King Nebuchadnezzar, they say in their hearts, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” (Dan 4:30). However, there is only One worthy to receive this glory.
EXHORTATION
Let us carefully note Solomon’s counsel: “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for He grants sleep to those He loves” (Ps 127:2). The fact remains that substituting human effort for obedience to God results in unattainable glory and unachievable security. Let us learn, therefore, to rest in God’s promises.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, You are the Creator and Guardian of everything seen and unseen. Teach us to trust You in every endeavor. Turn our eyes away from what is worthless and preserve our lives according to Your word (Ps 119:37). Help us pursue eternal things not made with human hands. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.