JUNE 24
Psalm 124:1-2, “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side—let Israel now say—if it had not been the Lord who was on our side.”
It’s been a long, difficult journey. Since Laura’s cancer diagnosis in January 2017, she has faced more than her share of hardship. She’s undergone radiation and endured six different cancer treatment plans. Her spine was weakened to the point where she now wears a back brace whenever she leaves the house. Chronic pain, endless doctor appointments, and an overwhelming amount of medical paperwork have become part of daily life. Slowly, her health and abilities have declined—but her spirit has not.
There are moments when we look back and realize: we should not have made it through. And yet, Laura has. She’s outlived expectations, held on to hope, and found ways to keep moving forward. Through pain and exhaustion, she has remained resilient—sometimes joyful, often courageous, always faithful. How? Because God was on our side. He has sustained her when strength failed. He has brought peace in the middle of chaos. His mercy has met her in the darkest moments. Without Him, this story would read very differently. But with Him, it is one of perseverance, grace, and quiet victory.
Psalm 124 is a song of gratitude, recognizing that Israel’s survival was only possible because the Lord was on their side. The psalmist reflects on what could have happened—being swallowed alive by enemies, swept away by raging waters—if God had not intervened. But instead, Israel was delivered like a bird escaping a hunter’s snare. The psalm ends with a powerful declaration: “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth (Psalm 124:8).” Though Israel be outnumbered, and though there appeared to be no clear means of escape, their victory was assured for the maker of heaven and earth was on their side. God worked to turn what should have been a defeat, into deliverance.
Psalm 124 reminds us that when life seems overwhelming, its not by our strength that can see us through. Whatever the battle, God’s presence changes everything. Like Israel, we can say with confidence: “If the Lord had not been on our side…” But He is. And because of that, I have hope—even in the hardest places.
“So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose?” – Romans 8:31, The Message Bible
APPLICATION QUESTIONS: Can you think of a time in your life when, looking back, you can say, “If the Lord had not been on my side”? What did God teach you through that experience? In what current situation do you need to be reminded that God is still on your side—fighting for you, sustaining you, and walking with you?
LookingtoJesus 