S--Psalm 142
O--David, before he was king, spent much time on the run and in hiding from King Saul. This psalm, used either in music or read during public worship, was written from a cave. (1 Samuel 24, David is hiding in a cave with his men.) In verses 1 and 2, he seems to be telling someone how he prays, how he goes to God with his pleas, complaints and troubles. Then he prays. 💓 He pours out to God some of his most recent struggles--struggle with faith, with the path he's on, with his enemies. He has reached the end of the line, he's worn out his welcome in places of safety, and he doesn't feel there's anyone left who cares if he lives or dies. When he considers that, he realizes that GOD is his refuge, GOD cares that he lives. But, David still faces very real danger and he is human. He needs someone to listen, he needs an upright group to surround him, and he needs a deliverer. Good News! He has all three in God.
A--This chapter changes me by leading me to once again recognize the same God who was David's refuge is mine. The same God who cared that David lived cares that I live, too. When I feel overwhelmed and afraid and weak, I should rehearse the same words that David cried to the Lord from the cave he was hiding in--"You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living." And just as God dealt bountifully with David (be sure to read all of 1 Samuel 24 for the full story, it's exciting!!), so has God dealt bountifully with us through Christ Jesus, our deliverer, our friend closer than a brother, and our upright redeemer. This is the Gospel, the Good News.
K--You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living. So help me to live in You and lead others to do the same.
No comments:
Post a Comment