Reflections

This Psalm talks about protection from our enemies. Who/what are my enemies? From what do I need protection? David was threatened by those who would want him dead. Even in this time when fear would overtake, David remained peaceful and calm enough to sleep – why? Why and how was he able to rest without fear?

Many things in my life can cause fear. Now that I’m single, I think about things like my health, my job, my home. What if statements can (and often do) conjure up feelings of fear. I don’t have enemies chasing me and trying to kill me – and yet I struggle at times to fully rely on God. The scripture promises that the Lord will watch over us. David understood his strength was from God.

vs. 3-4 says, ‘But you, O Lord, are a shield around me you are my glory, the one who holds my head high. I cried out to the Lord, and he answered me from his holy mountain.’

The Lord answered by providing protection for David. The Lord will provide protection for you. Rest in the knowledge that the Lord of the universe is in control and like David we can say – ‘I lay down and slept, yet I woke up in safety, for the Lord was watching over me. I am not afraid of 10,000 enemies who surround me on every side…victory comes from you. O Lord, may you bless your people.’ Psalm 3:5,6,8 NLT

In Psalm 1, we see the contrast between good & evil. There are two options for us and ultimately it is a choice – our choice. Will we delight in the law (words) of the Lord or will we rely on our own wisdom?

We have the option of the stability offered to us and described as a strong tree that is nourished by the riverbank or we have the option of self-reliance that offers no stability because as an individual my choices can lead to destruction. Much like chaff in the wind, my mind can change and shift like the sand when the ocean waves hit the shore.

Having a sure foundation is the only way to weather the storm. When do my leaves wither? When am I blown around in the wind? — when I am not spending time drinking in the Word of the Lord.

In this Psalm we see a warning for leaders/rulers. This idea of risk vs. reward is not a not a new concept in our culture. When you take on a new challenge, you need to weigh the risk vs the reward. Is the struggle going to be worth it or is this challenge futile and not worth the effort.

The world wants to be free from the ‘bondage and chains of slavery’ to God. BUT what appears to the world as slavery and bondage is actually an inheritance beyond what we can fathom. When we acknowledge our place as heirs of His kingdom, the Lord says to us – ONLY ASK and I will give you the nations as your inheritance. The whole earth is your possession – BUT in order to receive this promise, you must submit to verse 11 & 12

• Serve the Lord with reverent fear.
• Rejoice with trembling.
• Submit to God’s royal Son.

If we follow these admonishments, we will receive the promise in verse 12: BUT what joy for all who take refuge in him!