Maybe you will identify… It was dumb, I was young, what I did was stupid and impulsive! I worked hard – tried to be a diligent and effective employee, but the act was “spur of the moment”; it turned out badly; and I regretted it… The next thing I knew I was standing outside the bosses door… sweating and very nervous! This could cost me my job and it could hurt my reputation!
I stepped inside the door, poured out my story, and apologized… AND HE SMILED AT ME!!!
I read Psalm 80 this morning during my time of “coffee with the Lord” and that event came to mind… The situation described in Psalm 80 is similar… and 3 times in the passage this refrain appears (and believe me, I identify!)…
“Restore us, O God; may your face shine [or smile] upon us, that we may be saved!” (vs. 3)
“Restore us, God Almighty; may your face shine [or smile] on us, that we may be saved!” (vs. 7)
“Restore us,, Lord God Almighty; may your face shine [or smile] upon us that we may be saved!” (vs. 19)
Oh, how good it was that day long ago to receive the bosses smile of favor! And how incredibly wonderful it will be on that “final day” to see the Heavenly Father’s smile of favor! (… And even now, after I’ve poured out my heart in repentance for my sin, He assures me of His smile of favor!)
King David knew it – and depended upon it! His prayer? “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me! Do not cast me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me! Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me!” (Psalm 51:10-12 NIV)
And another place – the New Testament: “If we confess [acknowledge] our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness!” (1 John 1:9)
Just smile Lord – just smile!
Coffee With The Lord 