May 12
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PSALM 44 LIKE SHEEP FOR SLAUGHTER
7 But you have saved us from our foes and have put to shame those who hate us.
8 In God we have boasted continually,
and we will give thanks to your name forever. Selah
9 But you have rejected us and disgraced us and have not gone out with our armies.
10 You have made us turn back from the foe, and those who hate us have gotten spoil.
11 You have made us like sheep for slaughter and have scattered us among the nations.
12 You have sold your people for a trifle, demanding no high price for them.
13 You have made us the taunt of our neighbors,
the derision and scorn of those around us.
14 You have made us a byword among the nations, a laughingstock among the peoples.
15 All day long my disgrace is before me, and shame has covered my face
16 at the sound of the taunter and reviler, at the sight of the enemy and the avenger.
17 All this has come upon us, though we have not forgotten you,
and we have not been false to your covenant. – Psalm 44:7-17
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ON BEING RIDICULED AND DISGRACED by ILMA
When you are being ridiculed, do not agonize
Remember that Jesus’ was mocked by the Pharisees
Like sheep being led for slaughter, he didn’t say a word
He silently took all the taunting of this cruel world.
When you are being disgraced and made a laughingstock
Recall how many times Christ was whipped, tortured and spat on
Continue to endure the adversities you go through in life
It will bring you strength and your faith will shine like a light.
Press on to the progress you have already made
You won’t be given anything you can’t handle
The Lord our God has his purpose for letting you suffer
Be strong and firm in trusting him and do not cower.
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REFLECTION
• Why is it important to cry out to God when you are being ridiculed or disgraced?
• What must we do when we are discouraged by persecution or being mocked?