Psalm 18: 25-50
David’s praise turns in verse 25 to
a direct conversation with the Lord. His prose reminds me of the Beatitudes of Jesus:
“God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses
those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:7-8).
The psalm makes clear that David
relied on God’s grace for his victory. The totality of his victory is
understood to relate to Jesus’ victory over sin and death. The psalm models for
the followers of Jesus the unique relationship between the authority we have
been given by God and our humility as we walk in God’s favor. The Apostle Paul
revealed this same relationship when he wrote, “We use God’s mighty weapons,
not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to
destroy false arguments.” (2 Corinthians 10:4). This connection between grace
and authority is also established by Paul in his discussion of the armor of God
in Ephesians 6:12-18.
David and the New Testament
writers affirm that God has given us His grace, His strength, and His favor. As
we rest in the assurance of His great love and faithfulness we can receive His
charge: “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong” (1
Corinthians 16:13).
Sē’lah
What word or phrase
in these verses
Attracts your
attention?
Reflect on that word
or phrase.
What insights come to
you?
How does this passage
touch your life today?
Reading for May 20, 2012 Psalm 19
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