July 29, Morning

C. H. Spurgeon · Modern retelling

"Nevertheless I am continually with Thee." — Psalm 73:23 · KJV

"Nevertheless" — as if, despite all the foolishness and ignorance David had just confessed, it was no less true that he was saved and accepted, and that the blessing of being constantly in God's presence was his. Conscious of his own lost estate and the vileness of his nature, yet by a glorious outburst of faith he sings, "Nevertheless I am continually with Thee." Believer, forced to enter Asaph's confession, endeavor in the same spirit to say, "Nevertheless, since I belong to Christ, I am continually with God." This means continually upon His mind — He is always thinking of me for my good; continually before His eye, which never sleeps, but watches over my welfare; continually in His hand, so that none can pluck me thence; continually on His heart, worn there as a memorial, as the high priest bore the names of the twelve tribes upon his heart for ever. You always think of me, O God; Your love continually yearns toward me; You are always making providence work for my good. You have set me as a signet upon Your arm; Your love is strong as death, and many waters cannot quench it, neither can the floods drown it. Surprising grace! You see me in Christ, and though in myself abhorred, You behold me as wearing Christ's garments and washed in His blood, and so I stand accepted in Your presence — continually in Your favor, "continually with Thee." Here is comfort for the tried and afflicted soul: vexed with the tempest within, look at the calm without. "Nevertheless" — O say it in your heart, and take the peace it gives: "Nevertheless I am continually with Thee."