Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Request, Reason, and Response

Psalm 5:1-12


Many of the psalms were written during difficult, often painful, experiences. In Psalm 5 we find two sequences concerning trials. In the first sequence (vv. 1-7), David is experiencing difficulty and makes his request - "Hear me". Meditation here means "sighing, murmuring, groaning." When our burden is beyond expression, all we can do is sigh and moan before the Lord. The Spirit hears our groanings an intercedes for us (Romans 8:26). David's meditation turns to a cry (v. 2; Hebrews 5:7). Prayer is not always a quiet, joyful conversation with God. Sometimes it is a battle against the principalities arrayed against us.


David's reason for making this request is the holiness of God (vv. 4-6). He cried to God because He is holy and stands against the wicked and boastful. Although He will judge the wicked, God does not always judge sin immediately. David's response is to worship (v. 7).


In the second sequence, David makes another request - "Lead me" (v. 8). He wants God's way, the righteous way. In the midst of difficulty, what we need most is wisdom to know the will of God (James 1:5). Notice that David asks to be led, not delivered. God has a straight way through difficulty that will lead to victory. His reason this time is man's wickedness (vv. 9-10). Destruction means "A yawning, open abyss." An open tomb pictures defilement and death. Flattery is not communication; it is manipulation. Absalom fell by his own counsel. David did nothing. He let God do it all (Romans 12:19). David's response (vv. 11-12) is rejoicing in faith, love, and hope. Joy comes from trusting in and loving the Lord. This ind of joy comes from God's work on the inside, not from circumstances on the outside.


You have the privilege of praying to a loving, understanding Father, who knows your condition. He guides you through difficulty to victory. When your faith, hope, and love are fixed on the Lord, you can face any difficulty or problem, and God will give you joy and peace within.


~Warren W. Wiersbe~

No comments:

Post a Comment