The Psalms Guide Us in Praising God and in Pleading for His Protection
In addition to proclaiming praise to God, the book of Psalms in the Bible also provides comfort to many facing afflictions. The Psalms offer hope in the midst of turmoil and point us to God for deliverance from the world’s oppression.
David writes many of the psalms recorded for us in the Bible, including all five of today’s chapters.
He ends chapter 60 with a subtle two-point conclusion that’s easy to miss if we’re not careful. First, David says that when we walk with God, we will realize success. The implication is that without God, victory is not likely.
The Bible is full of stories that back this up: with God the impossible happens; without God even seemingly sure things falter.
Next David writes that God will punish our enemies. This suggests we shouldn’t seek revenge, but instead we should turn retaliation over to God. He will deal with those who oppose us.
David models this in his own life. When King Saul chases David, intent on killing him, David has an opportunity to slay Saul and end the matter.
Instead David declines and defers to God (1 Samuel 24:4-6). Though David needs to wait a few years, God does remove Saul and elevate David.
David likely recalls this, as well as the many other times God gave him victory and handled his vindication, when he wrote: “With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies,” Psalm 60:12.
[Read through the Bible with us this year. Today’s reading is Psalm 56-60, and today’s post is on Psalm 60:12.]
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.
Bogged Down Reading the Bible?
Get the Bible Reading Tip Sheet: “10 Tips to Turn Bible Reading from Drudgery to Delight.”
Enter your info and receive the free Bible Reading Tip Sheet and be added to Peter’s email list.