June 30, 2011

Psalm 127 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Luke 6:46-49, Philippians 4:14-23, 2 Kings 24-25

Journal Entry

Scripture

1Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.
2It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.

Observation

This psalm by Solomon is like the wisdom of Proverbs. This psalm describes the blessing and grace of God in a negative example of a person who labors in vain to build a house and a watchmen staying awake in vain. He eats “the bread of anxious toil” and works to achieve material security. Solomon states that it is all in vain, unless God is in his work and his life.

Application

This psalm challenges me to consider the direction of my life. Am I seeking after financial security and the good life without God? Without God’s grace, all of things one may value in life are in vain. I think that often I am running after good things in life without asking if God is at the center of my pursuits or my goals. Then, I find myself preoccupied with worries and concerns. I am reminded by this psalm to seek after God and His desires. True peace and rest is found only in God.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I confess that I have been chasing after material and worldly things. I have been anxious about the future, seeking to find security with my own power. I know you love me and you will give me what ever I need. I trust in your love and grace. Help me to find rest in you. Help me to trust in you alone.

--J. Lim