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As people, we have a limited view of everything. It is impossible to see things from God's perspective except by faith, an implicit trust in Him.
Our life on earth is limited because it exists within a physical realm. We are finite (limited), God is infinite (unlimited). This applies not only to physical and natural limitations, but carries over into our thinking and perceptions of the truth.
Honesty in prayer is essential. God values it. He honors it. But we have a hard time doing it.
By default, we put up a deceptive front. We justify ourselves before we get honest, genuinely honest. It's just the way we are.
This prayerful psalm of King David came after he was confronted by Nathan the prophet. The story is found in 2 Samuel 12:1-15.
"What does God want from me?" People often ask this question as if there's no clear answer.
But there is.
This question is asked many times out of frustration (or irritation) when things don't go well, or don't go as expected or wanted.
How much is a life worth? Life is priceless! A person's value is too high to calculate.
Yet, in wrongful-death court cases, various amounts of money are awarded to the family of the victim. The amount varies depending on the circumstances, judge, jury, or even public opinion.
But do any of these monetary awards equal the value of the life lost? No.
Trouble comes in many forms. It's felt both internally and externally. Some troubles are easier to resolve than others. Pop psychology tells us not to worry about what we can't control, but we do.
We worry about the economy, the environment and global warming, and we fret over national and international violence. But really, what can we do about such things?
This psalm gives those who trust in God three assurances in the face of such worries beyond our control.
This psalm was written as a love song with a composite picture in mind of a Jewish king and his bride. It is considered a Messianic psalm because parts of it are quoted in Hebrews 1:8-9 in reference to Jesus Christ (Messiah).
The imagery and wording speak of a king who is immortal. It looks ahead to the long-awaited Jewish Messiah establishing His kingdom on earth. A kingdom noted for its eternal permanence, favor, and justice.
Today, social justice is a hot topic, but clamoring for justice is nothing new. Protests, even revolutions, are undertaken for the cause of justice. But true justice isn't a legal issue, it's a moral one.
We all know life isn't all sunshine and butterflies. Low points in life impact us all. Regardless of their cause, these times reveal what we treasure most in our hearts.
What do you long for at your lowest points in life? Whatever it may be, it reveals what's become your priority, even when it's worry or fear or some selfish longing.
We all make judgment calls. No one wants to be judged and I doubt anyone wants to be known as a judgmental person. But there are times when a judgment call is appropriate.
When it is obvious that certain people are harmful and cause problems, it's appropriate to warn others about them. This is what Paul does here, but notice it's not done with vindictiveness or malice. This is the responsibility of a leader, especially a pastor or elder in the church.
Slander is not okay, but just as a parent warns a child about some danger or dangerous person, pastoral leaders need to warn those under their care.
