Sherelyn is the wife of Mark Mayberry, who labors with the Adoue Street congregation in Alvin, TX as an evangelist and elder. She can be reached at sherelynmayberry@live.com.

WOMEN'S SECTION

The fifth selection in Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs is based on Psalm 34, which speaks of the happiness of those who trust in God. The Lord's praises should always fill my heart and mouth. I should make melody in my heart and give thanks to God in all things (Eph. 5:19-20). Like Paul and Silas, who were singing praises to the Lord in prison at midnight, I can join with others even under difficult circumstances in glorifying One who hears His people (Acts 16:25). Am I willing to speak up when I have an opportunity and magnify God? I can let my light shine for the Lord and have a positive impact on others (Matt. 5:16).

Seeking the Lord in my distress, I find deliverance from my fears. As I maintain a close relationship with God, when I ask, seek, and knock, He will answer me (Luke 11:9). His angels will watch over me as I abide in His presence (Psa. 91:9-12). If the Lord is on my side, whom shall I fear, for there is none greater than He? What will I do when the law of our land defies the law of God? Will I stand up and be counted for the cause of Christ? I should, like Judah, be strong and courageous even as the enemy surrounds me (2 Chron. 32:7-8). The Lord has never forsaken His faithful followers, and He is our refuge in time of trouble. Therefore, I can put my trust in Him (Psa. 9:9-10).

As I taste the good word of God and grow in faith, I understand its power to save (Rom. 1:16; Heb. 6:4-5). Seeking and serving Him first, I realize all blessings are found in Him (Matt. 6:33). As I love and reverence God by keeping His commandments, I find the true meaning of life and all its joy (Eccl. 12:13-14). Desiring to love life and see good days, I must keep my tongue from evil and live a righteous life. Peace and length of days are an outgrowth of holy living (Psa. 34:12-14; 1 Pet. 3:10-12). My joy in salvation leads to thanksgiving and the Lord is magnified (Psa. 40:16).

The Lord knows our every need and listens to our cry. Through His infinite wisdom, God realizes our needs even before we ask Him (Matt. 6:8). He guards, guides, and protects me through life's journey. As I lay my cares before the Lord in prayer with thanksgiving, He will give me peace that surpasses comprehension (Phil. 4:6-7). In humility, I must realize that I can do all things by His strength (Phil. 4:13). With this promise of salvation for loyal service, I trust that God will make right all the wrongs that we might suffer. He will triumph over evil (Psa. 145:17-21). He loves us so much that He sent His Son to redeem us all. If I am judged faithful at the end of my days, I will be united with all the ransomed of the ages and praise Him for eternity (Rev. 7:9-12).