February 25, 2011

Psalm 41 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 20:1-16, Acts 27:27-38, Leviticus 17-19

Journal Entry

Scripture

“But you, O Lord, be gracious to me, and raise me up, that I may repay them! By this I know that you delight in me: my enemy will not shout in triumph over me. But you have upheld me because of my integrity, and set me in your presence forever." (Psalm 41:10-12)

Observation

In this Psalm, David asks God for help against his "enemies" who take advantage of his condition. It's hard to have people who speak maliciously against you (v. 5). It's painful to experience betrayal as even a trusted friend "lifted his heel against" you (v. 9). That's what David is experiencing here. He must have felt extremely lonely and discouraged. But, he turns to the Lord who is not only gracious, but just. He knows that his enemy will not triumph over him. He knows that God will deliver him because of his upright life before God. He is comforted as he runs to God who is full of grace and love.

Application

Life comes with a lot of discouraging moments when we feel hurt especially by people, including the ones we have trusted. I appreciate David's honesty in his bold prayer to the Lord as he expresses his feelings and asks God to step into his life situation because of his integrity. I examine my life today with a desire to live a life that is upright before God.

Prayer

Father, I thank you for teaching me that I can always run to you when I am discouraged and hurt. I know you're always there for me even when there is no one I can turn to. Lord, be gracious to me today as I walk in your presence in all that I do and think throughout the day. In Jesus' name, Amen.

--Stephen Han