Heart of a Psalmist - Worshipping Christ Through The Psalms

no one really knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.” (Mt. 11:27) He cannot be found by wisdom, reason or science, although all these things point to his existence, he can only be found by the revelation of his word.

“I am but a foreigner here on earth; I need the guidance of your commands. Don’t hide them from me!” (19)

Abraham is the Father of all who believe and the scriptures say of him: “And even when he reached the land God promised him, he lived there by faith–for he was like foreigner, living in a tent.”(Heb. 11: 9) Foreigners are especially unfamiliar with their surroundings and need instruction as to how to live in their environment. We are heavenly citizens in a fallen world and need the roadmap of his word. God’s kingdom is hidden from the proud and given to those who will follow him with child-like trust; it is not based on intelligence or ability but upon receiving the word of life.

“I am overwhelmed continually with a desire for your laws.” (20)

There are desires at the core of every person’s heart that determine the spiritual direction of life. In older translations the word used is ‘longing’ which describes a desire that is sustained over a long pe- riod of time. A desire is not a momentary ‘wish’; our love for God’s word should be passionate and sus- tained.

“You rebuke those cursed proud ones who wander from your commands.”(21)

This is the first verse in the psalm that addresses the ones opposing God’s ways; they are met by a ‘rebuke’ that is the strongest verbal correction possible. The next step in God’s corrective process in- volves a form of ‘chastisement’; it is best to listen to his warnings!

“Don’t let them scorn and insult me, for I have obeyed your decrees.” (22)

Verses 21-23 give us a picture of the writer in a public dispute with those who are mocking his com- mitment to God’s laws. Although the person who stands for God will most likely experience persecution at some point in their life, they will not always be persecuted as this prayer indicates. “Yes, and every- one who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” (2Tim. 3:12)

“Even princes sit and speak against me, but I will meditate on your principles.” (23)

This mocking occurs at a high, governmental level by the rulers of the land. When the princes of Judah turned against Jeremiah and his prophecies and threw him in prison he remained faithful to God; “So the officials went to the king and said, ‘Sir, this man must die!” (Jer. 38:4) Opposition tests our char- acter and resolve. Reflecting on his word gives us unusual strength to endure.

“Your decrees please me; they give me wise advice.” (24)

As we read the pages of Holy Scripture we walk with the wisest and godliest of men and women. We can hear the heart and mind of Abraham, Moses, Ruth, David, the prophets, of Jesus himself and his disciples and gain their good counsel for our lives. “Whoever walks with the wise will become wise; whoever walks with fools will suffer harm.” (Pro. 13:20) It is no wonder that the psalmist is pleased to study God’s word. Daleth d

“I lie in the dust, completely discouraged; revive me by your word.” (25)

The human soul has limited resources and only the power of God’s words can break the cycle of depression. He strengthens the mind with truth whereby it gains strength and hope. The promises of the scripture are both uplifting and true: “All praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the Father of every mercy and the God who comforts us.” (2 Cor. 1:3)

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