July 21, 2011

Psalm 144:1-8 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Luke 10:25-37, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, 2 Chronicles 11-12

Journal Entry

Scripture

3 O Lord, what is man that you regard him,
or the son of man that you think of him?
4 Man is like a breath;
his days are like a passing shadow.

Observation

The passage is couched in military language with references to battle, war, scattering of enemies, shooting arrows. However, in the midst of this, is a seemingly out of place thought, a philosophical musing that sticks out like a sore thumb.

Application

At first, one would question what verses 3 and 4 have to do with anything else occurring in the passage. However, careful inspection shows that this thought is well integrated with the rest of the passage. In the midst of the savagery of battle, the author questions what is the worth of man that God would smite his enemies. But the answer is simple. God loves us and wants to protect us. He wants us to thrive and conquer over those who would attack His people. Many times we may feel inconsequential in our lives especially when situations do not go out way. We may have lost a job opportunity or a treasured relationship with a friend. We may have been unjustly accused of a crime we did not commit or been the recipient of a punishment that was much to severe for the transgression. However, we should be secure in the knowledge that God loves us and, to paraphrase a popular commercial, "He will fight for you."

Prayer

Father, I thank you that you love me so much that you would fight for me. Let me be bold in my actions knowing that you are leading the way.

--Charlie Jang