 | CLM-0-048 b Psalms on Sundays: 4 - We Need the Basics |
From: "Clergy Mail List"
Sun, 12 Mar 2000
Clergy/Leaders' Mail-list No. 0-048 (Bible Reading Notes)
PSALM 4 (From 'Encounter with God' - Sunday 12 Mar 2000)
WE NEED THE BASICS
The God of the Bible is personal and knowable. He wants us to
find our safety in him today.
The fundamentals of prayer, faith and obedience surge through this
psalm. David cried to God to hear his prayer and then rested
comfortably and securely under the gracious hand of the Lord.
Between his prayer and his answer he considered the wrong paths
taken by unbelievers. Was it treachery, war, rebellion or famine
that was tearing David apart? Interestingly, here we see David as
both a godly individual and leader of his people. His concerns were
both personal and national.
David prayed because he knew God was righteous. God's
character was the bedrock of his confidence. Therefore, he was
not afraid to cry for relief and mercy. God was not beyond
him, but very close to him, so he could confess his needs
whatever they were. That is the priceless privilege of those
who trust in the Lord and walk with him.
Of course, some people forsake God for lies (v 2). Others may sin
through unrestrained anger (v 4). God cares for those who trust
him. Even though our faith may be challenged by powerful,
influential people, we can always seek answers from the Lord who
hears our prayers (vs 2,3). Some people reject God's goodness out
of their unbelief. The truth is that unless God shines upon us we
are doomed. We must continually remind ourselves of God's goodness
to us. Our joy in God's care surpasses anything unbelievers
experience. Christians worship and praise God as part of their
personal and corporate witness to the Lord.
Our faith grows through seeing the disturbed David become the
restful David. He slept peacefully and lived securely because he
knew the Lord was righteous and faithful to those who trust in him.
We too find strong assurances in the basics of faith and prayer.
What do you say to the cynics who expect only bad news in the
new millennium? 'Who can show us any good?' (v 6).
- James Reapsome
Copyright Scripture Union, 2000
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