Arriving at the Summit: Day One
Day 1: The Summit That Satisfies
Devotional
Have you ever reached a goal only to feel strangely empty afterward? Many of us climb mountains of achievement—career success, financial security, or personal milestones—only to stand at the summit wondering, "Is this all there is?" Even those who reach the pinnacle of worldly success often discover this truth. Athletes with gold medals, business leaders with fortunes, and celebrities with fame have all confessed to a profound emptiness at the top. But there is a summit that truly satisfies—one that fulfills the deepest longings of our souls. Psalm 134 reveals this destination as the joy of blessing God and being blessed by Him in return. This short psalm concludes the Songs of Ascent, representing the climactic moment when God's people arrive in His presence after their journey. Unlike worldly achievements that often disappoint, this spiritual summit delivers what our hearts truly seek: purpose, meaning, and joy. When we bless God—declaring His greatness and celebrating His works—we're fulfilling our created purpose. And remarkably, as we do this, God meets us with His own blessing. Today, consider what mountain you're climbing. Are you pursuing goals that will ultimately leave you asking, "Is this it?" Or are you on the journey toward the summit that satisfies—the presence of God where blessing flows both ways?
Come, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who stand by night in the house of the Lord!
Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the Lord!
May the Lord bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth!
- Psalm 134
Reflection Question
What worldly summits have you been striving for that might ultimately disappoint, and how might redirecting your focus toward blessing God change your journey?
“At the summit of life's journey of faith, what will we find? Will it be a letdown?
Or will it finally satisfy the deepest longing of our souls?” — Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Lord, forgive me for climbing mountains that cannot satisfy. Redirect my ambitions toward the summit that truly fulfills—Your presence. Help me find joy in blessing You today, even as I receive Your blessing in return. Amen.