Scripture: Psalm 55:22
Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders—
      he’ll carry your load, advice he’ll help you out.
      He’ll never let good people
      topple into ruin.

Thought for the Day: Passages like this are meant to give us hope in times of despair. Unfortunately, doctor sometimes these passages are used to beat us into submission when we’re already feeling down. The implication is that, if our life is in ruins, we must not be good people. This attitude is not helpful when we’re already feeling worthless, nor is it what the author intended.

The Bible was written by people who wanted to convey a sense of mystery and awe to the universe; by people who wanted to let each other know, “Hey, I know life sucks sometimes, but not only do I have your back, but God has your back. Don’t worry. Things will get better. Maybe not today, maybe not even next year—but things will get better. You’re not alone. We’re in this together. We’re in this with God.”

Prayer: I send my inner turmoil to you, Holy One. I pray for sweeping global change as we in the west awaken to the abuses our lifestyle causes around the world. Melt our cold hearts, ease our consumer lust, and call us to minister to the people around the world suffering at our expense. Amen.