Psalm 16:8
I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.
Applying God’s word to our lives today: Passages like this may seem hard to read at first because, when we look at ourselves, we have to admit, “God is not always before me.” It forces us to face the truth that we do not love God above all else, nor do we honor His name as holy. We face life’s challenges, and when we reach the end of our rope, we have an aha moment: maybe we should bring our requests to God, our last resort to overcome obstacles.
Part of God’s Word is to point out our sins and make us feel guilt and shame for what we have done. You might think, “That’s a terrible idea because I already feel guilty enough for things I do on my own—things I forget to do or outbursts I have with others.” Put your guilt and shame into proper perspective: by faith, when you see what you have done, you can say, “Lord, I am sorry!” Because even though we sin, God is still at our right hand, and we can never outdo His grace and mercy.
This Psalm is a prophecy of what Jesus has done for us. He always prioritized God the Father so that we can be credited with doing it ourselves. Jesus gives us His perfection, then suffered, died, and rose again so you would be forgiven for every time you fail to keep God first. Therefore, since God is at your right hand, you can confidently cast aside your guilt and shame for all your sins, knowing Jesus paid the price for your redemption. You can share this good news with others who struggle with guilt and shame because He paid for the sins of the whole world, and this gift of forgiveness is ours through faith in Jesus. Share this message and let the Holy Spirit work, planting faith through God’s Word.
Dear Lord, thank You for always being at my right hand. Your presence there signifies that the Holy Spirit is also with me, calling and gathering believers through faith in Jesus. Additionally, through faith, I believe that Jesus has forgiven all my sins, and so even when I forget You, You remain faithful and do not leave me. Forgive my sins, strengthen my faith, and give me the courage to share Your love, grace, and mercy with others who are struggling with guilt and shame. Please grant them faith to believe in Jesus. Amen
Recognizing failure or sin is not the end, but a new beginning. Jesus taught in His Word to admit our sins and receive forgiveness for all of them. Guilt and shame serve as God’s way for you to see your errors and turn to Him; He promises to be by your side.