March 20, 2011

Psalm 64 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 26:36-46, Romans 10:14-21, Deuteronomy 4-5

Journal Entry

Scripture

1 Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint;
preserve my life from dread of the enemy.

3  who whet their tongues like swords,
who aim bitter words like arrows,
4  shooting from ambush at the blameless,
shooting at him suddenly and without fear.
5 They hold fast to their evil purpose;
they talk of laying snares secretly,
thinking, “Who can see them?”

7  But God shoots his arrow at them;
 they are wounded suddenly.

8  They are brought to ruin, with their own tongues turned against them;
all who see them will wag their heads.

9  Then all mankind fears;
 they tell what God has brought about
and ponder what he has done.
10  Let the righteous one rejoice in the Lord
and take refuge in him!
Let all the upright in heart exult!

Observation

David’s prayer begins with a complaint but ends in faith and trust in who God is. He describes in detail the evil ways of the enemy. Specifically how they devise evil plans and try to use words to destroy. The enemy is relentless and diligently seeks to do what is evil. However, as David proceeds in his prayer, his complaint and plea for his life turns to faith in God who will render justice. The enemy’s own tongue will be turned against them. David senses triumphant joy.

David is an example of someone who is always communicating with God. God uses these "talks" to change David’s heart. In this case from fear and distress to faith and trust.

Application

Words are so powerful. My own words - what is said and how it is delivered can have significant impact. My words reflect what is within me. Sometimes it is drenched in evil. For example, I may want to exact revenge in anger. Although I may charade it as justice, the driving force is evil intent. It will only lead to destruction for those in my path and ultimately myself. Like David, I need to ABIDE in Him at all times; talking to God at all times; so that my heart is connected and purified in Him at all times. Then, I can experience real triumphant joy no matter the circumstances, for I know He is with me. The greatest evil pales in comparison to who He is.

Prayer

Lord I thank you. Your commands and jestures of love are so simple but I seem to complicate it with my excuses and laziness. May I experience triumphant joy in knowing what you have done and how much you love me.

--jyim