Uncertain?
Opening Prayer
Father God, You are so worthy of my praise, yet I seldom know where to begin. Let my heart open up in worship today.
Read Psalm 76:1-12
[1] For the director of music. With stringed instruments. A psalm of Asaph. A song. God is renowned in Judah; in Israel his name is great. [2] His tent is in Salem, his dwelling place in Zion. [3] There he broke the flashing arrows, the shields and the swords, the weapons of war. [4] You are radiant with light, more majestic than mountains rich with game. [5] The valiant lie plundered, they sleep their last sleep; not one of the warriors can lift his hands. [6] At your rebuke, God of Jacob, both horse and chariot lie still. [7] It is you alone who are to be feared. Who can stand before you when you are angry? [8] From heaven you pronounced judgment, and the land feared and was quiet- [9] when you, God, rose up to judge, to save all the afflicted of the land. [10] Surely your wrath against mankind brings you praise, and the survivors of your wrath are restrained. [11] Make vows to the LORD your God and fulfill them; let all the neighboring lands bring gifts to the One to be feared. [12] He breaks the spirit of rulers; he is feared by the kings of the earth. Scripture taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
How does the psalmist describe the greatness of God?Today’s psalm celebrates God’s power, particularly in defense of Jerusalem. It may well describe God’s victory when Sennacherib, King of Assyria, attacked Judah and lost (see 2 Kings 18-19). Notice how many times the word “feared” is mentioned (7,8,11,12). There was a great deal at stake. The Assyrians were challenging the Israelites’ faith in God and trying to get them to fear Sennacherib instead. The people must have been terrified and wondered if God would intervene. We, too, have our own uncertainties today. They may be more about security of employment, finance or relationships, but they say the same thing: “Don’t trust God, trust me.” Whatever played out on the ground, it was God’s victory, not the soldiers’ (4-10). The people were asked to acknowledge that this victory was from heaven (11,12), and to declare that God is trustworthy and to be feared.
Apply
Reflect on your routine of meeting with God. What helps you do the right thing when uncertainty is at its peak in your life?
Closing prayer
Lord, help me rely on Your strength as I go through this day. When I am weak or confused, give me clarity and purpose to serve You.
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