Devotional - October 15, 2025

Scripture: Psalm 34:14 Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

As Christians, one would not think it necessary to be told the Psalm we have for today.  One would not think it would be necessary for it to be told to the Jewish people when it was written many years ago.  Unfortunately, we need to hear it time and again.  Some may say, what do you mean?  I am a nice person.  I'm not out robbing banks (...at least I hope not!).  But, if push came to shove, we may quietly mumble out a few things that may qualify as being evil.  We may even admit to a few others and then justify them.  We've been hurt by someone or we got caught up in an injustice.  We were wronged.  Our actions are our reactions to the events and they are justified regardless of outside influences.  Who wants to heal when we can get revenge.  By doing so, we don't heal, and the wound continues to worsen and compound as life goes on and more things happen.  Pretty soon, we have lost control over our life.  We are just a running tally of reactions and justifications.  The Psalmist says turn from, turn away from it.  No need for discussion, especially when resolution is not possible.  In our times, we like to say, let it go.  Evil does not allow for resolution whether it is evil within ourselves or with others; that is how it self perpetuates and keeps us trapped.  Let it go without needing to do so in a certain way that makes you feel good, and instead, do good.  Seek peace, let things settle, enjoy life, especially if things are going well.  We know it does not stay that way, so why waste a good day.  When evil arises, turn away from it, reject it (James 4:7, 1 Peter 5: 8-9, 1 Cor 10:13), and maintain your peace.  Don't let this process be complicated.  One tool that is helpful in doing so is truth (Zach 8:16).  What is the truth of the matter at hand?  One can find resolution in truth and goodness.  It may not be what you want to hear, but it allows for peace.  To summarize, the Psalmist tells us to turn from evil, no need to explain why, and do good instead.  Then, seek peace and keep on seeking it in our lives (John 14:6).

Pray with me.., Holy God help us to let go, to turn away from the evil in our lives.  Continue to reveal to us the truth which we so desperately need.  Hear our prayers for our loved ones.  We ask that You would bless them according to their needs.  Bless our church O God, so we can be the blessing we are called to be in Jesus' name, Amen.

God’s Peace,

Pastor Brian