Scripture for Today: Psalm 90:17 “May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us – yes, establish the work of our hands.”

When a ladybug lands on me, I don’t usually brush it off.  Many cultures consider it good luck!  In France it is called, “bête à Bon Dieu,” meaning insect of a good God.  Farmers encourage them as they protect their crops by eating aphids.  I just enjoy them for their bright red and black design, even if they are part of the beetle family.  Their name originated in the Middle Ages when farmers prayed to the Virgin Mary for crop protection.  When these insects arrived, they were called, “Beetle of our Lady.”  Eventually it became shortened to, “ladybug.”

Today’s verse recognizes that favor in our lives has one true Source, the God of the universe.  We are told that “every good and perfect gift” originates with Him (James 1:17).  How incongruous to attribute any good in our lives to dumb luck!  For the believer, His favor rests on His own all throughout our lives.  In His gracious beautiful favor He establishes the work of our hands.  He even promises that our labor in the Lord is not in vain (I Cor. 5:58).  What is done for His glory will have eternal significance regardless of how mundane it may seem.

All labor is vain without Him, whether it is building homes, guarding gates or what I do in a day (Psalm 127:1).  How amazing that the Lord wants to be involved in every part of my life, including work, projects and hobbies.  He blesses, He guides hands and thoughts.  He confirms and makes successful my efforts.  He gets all the glory and that is how it should be!

Lord, help me recognize your favor and goodness today!