NOTE: As I wrote this devotion, I could not help think of the tragic death of Eric Garner. This was not my first thought, however. I was writing on praising the LORD and my first think was of Psalm 30:5 quoted below. As I wrote, Eric’s tragic death came to mind. Sorrow over this terrible situation engulf my heart as I thought about his family, especially his daughter. I in no way mean any disrespect to Eric or his family by this devotion. Although I have faced moments where I could not breath, these in no way compare to his loss. I cannot imagine the sorrow and grief his family is experiencing. Please join me in praying for his family, and please read this devotion in the light it is intended: to praise the LORD. Peace.
Devotion Title: “What Would Your Last Breath Be?”
Date: 12-09-14
Text: — Psalm 30:5 — For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning. [NKJV]
The Big Idea: What would my last words be, especially if I couldn’t breath.
Growing up in a brand new suburb, the neighborhood kids would go down to the creek to play. One day we discovered some huge drainage pipes. I got up on top of them as we trying to separated two of them, let them roll back and, “Clang” together. Right before one “clang” I fell in between them and was being crushed. The guys said I was turning pretty blue; obviously I couldn’t breathe. Tom, an older boy we hung with, strained to push the pipes apart, as he called the others to help. Not sure what happened, except that he saved my life—obviously….
I have often thought about that incident and wonder know as a Christian, what would my last words be, especially if I couldn’t breath. Now this may seem oxymoronic because we need to breathe to speak, but do we need to breathe to praise? I suppose not.
Lifestyle worshipers, do you remember our Lord Jesus’ last breaths on the cross, as His chest crushed under the load of our sins? I believe His last words were praise to His Heavenly Father: The two last words I am most grateful for are: “Father, forgive them they know not what they do,” and “It is finished.”
What would your last words be? Have you thought about it before? Perhaps with a gush of Grace they will be praise. Your thoughts?
Scriptures to Renew Your Thoughts
— Acts 7:59-60 (NIV84)
— Psalm 150:6 (NASB95)
Lord Jesus Christ, may words of my mouth and the mediations of my heart be pleasing to You. In Your Name, Amen.
Pastor Mike