Not gonna lie, I’ve always liked being on the inside. Jazzed by being around the table. Not necessarily having to be the one who makes things happen, content if that’s left to others, but also not wanting to be that guy who all of a sudden looks up one day, gives his head a shake, and dumbfoundedly asks, “Uh, what just happened?”

I don’t think it’s a power thing. It’s an engagement thing. I don’t think it’s FOMO, fear of missing out, but more like FOMOO, a fear of mindlessly opting out.

If someone’s gonna let me into their inner circle, I’m in. If someone’s willing to take me into their confidence, I’m good for the taking. Especially if that Someone is the God of creation!

Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways, for the devious person is an abomination to the LORD, but the upright are in His confidence.

(Proverbs 3:31-32 ESV)

The upright are in His confidence. Chew on that for a bit. Let that sink in. Talk about being on the inside!

In His confidence. Literally, invited into secret counsel. Part of the family conversation. Received as an intimate friend. Talk about your seat at the table!

The psalmist says we should bless the LORD and forget not all His benefits (Ps. 103:1-2). Being in His confidence is one of those benefits. Let’s not forget it. Bless the LORD, O my soul!

Think about all the stuff we know which we would have never known apart from being in His confidence. Stuff about creation and how it reveals the Creator. Insider knowledge as to the real reason all people matter, because they are image bearers of God. A practical understanding of where things went south and a confident answer, along with a working knowledge, for how things can be restored.

Not only do we have a handle on the macro picture of history, we’re also prophets able to talk confidently about the future. Optimists, even in depressing and cynical times, because we know who wins. Having been brought into the secret council of heavenly happenings, we’ve got the tools to go out and be of maximum earthly good.

And that, because we are the upright. Not in ourselves, but in His Son. Not because of our best efforts, but through His finished work on the cross. Not because we deserve it, but because — and this we know via insider knowledge — He desired it!

No need to look around and wonder what’s happening. Instead, we look up and confidently declare, “I know the One who’s making it happen!”

For who among them has stood in the council of the LORD to see and to hear His word, or who has paid attention to His word and listened?

(Jeremiah 23:18 ESV)

The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear Him, and He makes known to them His covenant.

(Psalm 25:14 ESV)

Again, not gonna lie, I like being on the inside. Joy at having a seat at the table. Blessed by being in His confidence. How about you?

Only because of His grace. Might it always be for His glory.