Psalm 58

For the followers of Christ who are seeking to live in the grace of New Life, Psalm 58 presents a bit of a challenge. Although it was by grace that Israel was chosen to be God’s people and it was by grace that David was selected by God to be King, the people of ancient Israel pretty much lived by reward and punishment: “Then at last everyone will say, “There truly is a reward for those who live for God” (Psalm 58: 11a)

However, we need to remember that there is not a nickels worth of difference between us and the born sinners, snakes, and snails of Psalm 58, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard” (Romans 3:23). However, Jesus took upon himself all of the sin described in Psalm 58: “When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners” (Romans 5:6).

As Christ followers, Psalm 58 can help us remember that we always need to hold onto the grace that saved us. And, when we do yield to the temptations of sin, we can rush to God, remembering, “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness” (1 John 1:9).

Psalm 58 is also a call to remember that there will be a final judgment; “For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body” (1 Corinthians 5:10). How many people do you know that are not living in the saving grace of Jesus? Perhaps today is a good day to renew, or begin, your prayers for them. Ask God to show you how you can be a positive influence in their life. Let God use you as His prevenient grace to draw them to His unfailing love.

Sē’lah

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Reading for June 29, 2012         Psalm 59