July 2, 2011

Psalm 129 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Luke 7:11-17, Colossians 1:15-23, 1 Chronicles 3-4

Journal Entry

Scripture

2"Greatly have they afflicted me from my youth, yet they have not prevailed against me. 3The plowers plowed upon my back; they made long their furrows." 4The LORD is righteous; he has cut the cords of the wicked (Psalm 129:2-4).

Observation

The psalmist testifies that although the enemies had beaten down Israel again and again, they had not been victorious. Israel is imagined as thrown down to the ground, while the ruthless enemies drive the plow up and down over them, brutally shredding their backs. But each time, God has intervened, “cutting the cords of the wicked” – that is, the plower’s harness, so that they can no longer inflict suffering on Israel. Israel has survived every crisis and there is a single, all-sufficient explanation—“The Lord is righteous” (v. 4).

Application

The history of the people was a record of multiple afflictions. But it was also a record of amazing deliverances. The same is true of my own life. Like the Israelites, I know what it’s like to be thrown down to the ground and to feel anguish as if a plow were being driven up and down my back. I recall the pain of poverty, near homelessness, family turmoil, premature death of loved ones, physical pain, self-doubt and self-hatred. But I also recall the God of righteousness cutting the cord and setting me free.

Throughout the day today, I will praise the faithfulness of the One who cuts the cord of suffering and delivers me. And, with tears I sing this morning my favorite hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness”….

Great is Thy faithfulness, oh God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.

Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Prayer

Father, how many times have I manufactured a public smile to hide the pain and despair deep within? How many times have I suffered in silence? But, God, you saw my anguish. And you came to my rescue. You delivered me time and time again and never forgot about me. Father, great is thy faithfulness! In Jesus name, amen.

--P. Michael