S--Psalm 109
O--A song written by David to God, the object of his praise. He's poured out his heart to God. He knows God has all power, so he asks for protection. He needs someone in his corner as he's faced at every side by rumors, lies, hatred, attacks, and accusations. David doesn't want to offer anything but love to those against him, but they are returning any good he tries to extend to them with evil. So David goes on a rant, asking God to hand out every kind of revenge possible. But in verse 21, he admits that God knows best. He says "I'm tired, I'm worn out, I'm weak. Deliver me from my hurt feelings and work according to Your glory and for my good." Once again, David calls on the single-minded, stubborn, unwavering love of God to save him... from himself. He knows that ultimately, their hatred, lies, rumors,and accusations cannot outdo the blessings of God. He promises that everyone will know his change of heart came only by the hand of God. David comes to the conclusion that he doesn't need God to punish his enemies; their evil words bring their own shame. Their accusations bring dishonor upon themselves. But David vows to be glad in the Lord, whose blessing far, far outweighs any cursing any man can bring before him. The thought of that brings David to a place of overwhelming praise and gratitude.
A--Sometimes we just need to vent, don't we? David is showing us so perfectly that God is the one to whom we should bring our complaints. If David had vented to a friend, or even worse, acted on his hurt, angry, bitter feelings, how much worse off could things have gone? He was "wishing" some pretty serious consequences on his enemies. But as he poured out his hurt to the only One who could listen and not be swayed to act unjustly, David is led to praise. He realizes that God IS in control, and the enemies have no influence on his life but what he (David) is giving them. They will answer for their sin and it will be to their shame. He will answer for his reaction, and he will be glad when he chooses God's way!! This chapter changes me because, within the life of an ancient king, I see an every day struggle. Instead of wishing evil on my enemies, I should be praying so hard to see redemption win!
K--When I'm tired, worn, bitter, angry, hurt...don't be silent, God. "Let me see redemption win. Let me know the struggle ends. That you can mend a heart that's frail and torn." ("Worn"--Tenth Avenue North)
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