FAITH IN ACTION| YOUR FREE BIBLE DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY

As smoke is driven away, (so) drive (them) away: as wax melteth before the fire, (so) let the wicked perish at the presence of God.

Psalms 68:2 (KJV)

POEM

In wisps of smoke, a tale emerges,
A hidden message that resurges,
As smoke is driven away, so true,
Let wickedness depart from view.

The flames ignite, the fire roars,
Melting wax on hearthstone floors,
As wax melteth before the blaze,
Let evil vanish, lost in haze.

For in the presence of the Divine,
The wicked tremble, for they pine,
Their ruthless deeds, they cannot keep,
In the presence of God, they weep.

Like smoke dispersing in the air,
Let them vanish, no longer there,
Let righteousness prevail within,
And let the wickedness rescind.

Oh, let the presence of God ignite,
A spark within, a guiding light,
To banish darkness, wickedness dread,
And fill our hearts with love instead.

So as the smoke is driven away,
Let those who harm fall to dismay,
In God’s presence, let the wicked cease,
And in His love, let us find peace.

DEVOTIONAL

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we often encounter situations and people that challenge our faith and corrupt our hearts. However, there is a powerful truth that can bring comfort and hope in times of turmoil. It is found in the scripture, “As smoke is driven away, (so) drive (them) away: as wax melteth before the fire, (so) let the wicked perish at the presence of God” (Psalm 68:2). Today, we will reflect on this verse and explore the transformative power of God’s presence in our lives.

• 1) THE NATURE OF SMOKE:

Smoke is transient and moves with the wind. It represents the fleeting nature of sinful desires, worldly distractions, and the negative influences that seek to derail our spiritual journey. Just as smoke can be driven away, so too can God remove these detrimental influences from our lives through His presence. In His infinite mercy, He desires to cleanse us and create in us a heart that is pure.

• 2) THE POWER OF FIRE:

Wax is often associated with the wicked and sinful nature of humanity. It represents our vulnerabilities and weaknesses, easily yielding to the temptations of the world. However, when wax meets fire, it undergoes a transformation. The fire melts away impurities, leaving behind a substance that reflects its true nature – shining with purity and radiance. Similarly, in the presence of God, the wicked are challenged and transformed, and their sinful nature is consumed.

• 3) THE PURIFYING PRESENCE OF GOD:

The presence of God is a refining force that purges evil and empowers us to live righteously. When we invite Him into our lives, His holiness exposes the darkness within us. Sins that once held sway over our hearts are driven away, just as smoke is scattered by the wind. God’s presence brings clarity, conviction, and a desire for transformation.

• 4) THE PERISHING OF THE WICKED:

The psalmist declares that the wicked perish at the presence of God. While this may seem harsh, it is a reflection of the final judgment when all evil will be eradicated. In His perfect justice, God will separate the righteous from the wicked. Those who persist in their wicked ways without repentance will face eternal consequences. It is a reminder that there are eternal ramifications for rejecting God’s grace and choosing to live a life contrary to His will.

• 5) EMBRACING THE PRESENCE OF GOD:

As believers, we are called to seek and embrace the presence of God in our lives. It is through His presence that we are transformed and sanctified. We should strive to cultivate a deep and intimate relationship with Him, knowing that His presence brings about a radical change within us. Through prayer, worship, and studying His Word, we can draw closer to God and experience the purifying power of His presence.

The scripture reminds us of the transformative power of God’s presence. Like smoke blown away and wax melting before fire, the wicked will perish in the presence of God.

As we seek His presence, we are purified and transformed from within. Let us invite God into our lives and allow His refining fire to cleanse us, purging us of wickedness and bringing forth a heart that is pleasing to Him. May we continually strive to live in His presence, walking in righteousness and reflecting His glory to the world around.