Acquainted with All My Ways

January 21, 2021

“O LORD, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.” - Psalm 139:1-5

The God who created the universe knows you. Read that again. God knows what you think, feel, and experience. He knows all your beliefs, all your hopes and dreams, and every word you’ll ever say before you even say it.
God is acquainted with all your ways.

Nothing you do or say will ever surprise him; no direction you take in life will throw him off. God knows where you’re going in life before you figure it out. He knows what challenges you face, what talents you have, and what you’ll accomplish throughout your time on earth. These are and should be comforting thoughts. To be known and seen by the God of the universe is a wonderful thing. But perhaps the most wonderful thing of all is realizing God also sees all the mistakes you will make along the way and still chooses to hem you in, to keep your soul safe from harm. God knows every sin you commit, every sin you’ll ever commit, and still decides to lay his hand upon you.

In a harsh world of uncertainty, the psalmist sings to worship and thank God for how he has chosen to care for and protect him. But I believe the psalmist also sings to remind himself of the unfailing presence and love of God. The psalmist needs to remember just how powerful and all-knowing the God of the universe is, he is acquainted with all his ways, both good and bad, and wants to be with him.

As we walk this earth in relationship with Christ, we need this same reminder.

Reflection:
Are there times when you feel unseen, underappreciated, lonely, unworthy, or as if the world around you is crumbling? Try to find a few moments throughout your day to stop, get quiet, and remember that God is acquainted with all your ways. He sees you. He loves you. His hand is upon you.