Monday 16 August, 2021

For the director of music. To the tune of “A Dove on Distant Oaks.” Of David. A miktam. When the Philistines had seized him in Gath. 1 Be merciful to me, my God, for my enemies are in hot pursuit; all day long they press their attack. 2 My adversaries pursue me all day long; in their pride many are attacking me. 3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. 4 In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? 5 All day long they twist my words; all their schemes are for my ruin. 6 They conspire, they lurk, they watch my steps, hoping to take my life. 7 Because of their wickedness do not let them escape; in your anger, God, bring the nations down. 8 Record my misery; list my tears on your scroll— are they not in your record? 9 Then my enemies will turn back when I call for help. By this I will know that God is for me. 10 In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise— 11 in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me? 12 I am under vows to you, my God; I will present my thank offerings to you. 13 For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.

A short psalm that says much about how David handles difficult situations.  He firstly cries out to God for mercy then states his trust in God and reliance upon what God has already promised.  It also shows us how much God loves us and is mindful of our circumstances – each tear is collected and recorded. It is important to note that David also offers a sacrifice of thanks to God for his help in rescuing him.

This psalm is a fear crusher! By the end of this psalm David is in a different place. He begins in anguish and ends in praise and walking in God’s presence.  This is such a timely passage for us.  We may not be physically surrounded by our enemies but many of us feel encroached upon from being in lockdown for weeks.   There’s no better time to cry out to God and trust him – “I trust in God so why should I be afraid?”  Time to recall and take heart in the promises of God.  God can be trusted!

Thank you Lord, that you record all our sorrows, that you are mindful of what is going on in our lives.  Thank you Lord, that we can place our trust in you and that you are on our side.  Thank you for rescuing me! Amen

Written by Ps. Ainslie Woods