July 16, 2011

Psalm 140 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Luke 9:37-45, 1 Thessalonians 3:1-15, 2 Chronicles 1-2

Journal Entry

Scripture

4 Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have planned to trip up my feet.
8 Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted!
13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence.

Observation

Being chased down and persecuted by Saul, whom he whole-heartedly had served as his king, this psalm clearly delivers David's heart, seeking justice from the Lord. I do feel sorry for him for having to go through it all.

Application

I look outward and fail to see "evil" and "violent" men who plot evil things to "trip up my feet"; so, I look inward and question myself whether there is any evil or wicked way in me that may trip up someone else's feet, whether I am the wicked one that may trip up others' feet, intentionally or inadvertently. "Search me, O God, and know my heart today; try me, O Savior, know my thoughts I pray; see if there be some wicked way in me..."

Prayer

Dear Lord, guard me from the hands of the wicked should there be any around me that I fail to recognize, and also guard me from any wickedness within me so as not to stumble others around me. Continue to teach me to be upright, so that I shall dwell in your presence at all times.

In your precious Son, Jesus' name...Amen.

--Julius B.