Today's Scripture:

Psalm 107:17-22 Some became fools through their rebellious ways and suffered affliction because of their iniquities. They loathed all food and drew near the gates of death. Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave. Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Let them sacrifice thank offerings and tell of his works with songs of joy.

Read: Reflect on a story in your life that pertains to this scripture.
To me, the scripture means that people are drawn away from God through the temptations and deceit of the world, causing them to despair and cry out for relief. God reaches out to these people in profound and meaningful ways, causing them to turn from the deceit of the world and become followers of His Word to help spread His teachings far and wide.

Reflect: What is this scripture telling you during this season?
A real-world application of this scripture is to think about people in our lives who seem rebellious or cynical. We should ask ourselves where that hurt comes from and how it may have affected their faith, and where it may lead them at later points in their lives. We must look at these people and see if in actuality they are crying out for help from God (or are trying their hardest to do so), and help restore their faith and joy through kindness and humility. We need to try our hardest to understand them and teach them about God's message so that they can be led to Him and spread His Word even more.

Respond: How is this scripture calling you to respond?
I think this scripture is calling me to reach out to the people in my life who need a helping hand and generous love. There are so many people that I know who seem rebellious and angry, and it is sometimes difficult for me to imagine what has happened in their lives and has led them to feel this way. This scripture reminds me to think about others and to try as hard as I can to demonstrate God's mercy and infinite grace to them, so that they can become followers and feel true joy in their lives that is not tainted by the deceit of the world.

About Thomas Myers:
I am a senior at Houston Christian High School, and I am the son of Liz and Franklin Myers. I am an Eagle Scout, and I enjoy participating in the theater program at my school. I hope to study American history at the College of William and Mary.
I have been attending Grace for over eight years as part of the student ministries youth group.