2019 Jan 28 Psalms 28, 89, 2Thessalonians 3
2019 Jan 28 Psalms 28, 89, 2Thessalonians 3
A warm welcome to everyone! Let's consider Psalms 28:4-6:
In verse 3 David asks God not to drag him away with the wicked, "practicing what is hurtful, those who are speaking words of peace with their fellowman while evil is in their hearts." This alerts us that the words of such ones can be deceptive--not everyone speaks what is truly in their heart, or as Psalm 15:2 describes the right way, "practicing what is right and speaking the truth in his heart." David continues:
"4 Pay them back for their deeds, According to their evil practices. Repay them for the work of their hands, According to what they have done. 5 For they pay no attention to the activities of Jehovah, Nor to the work of his hands. He will tear them down and not build them up. 6 May Jehovah be praised, For he has heard my pleas for help."
Psalm 28:4 Notice David does not take matters into his own hands, but leaves it to Jehovah to repay such evil ones for what they have done. Jehovah can read the heart, and see any hope of repentance on the part of such ones, or their determined course of wrongdoing, and repay accordingly. The Mosaic Law of ancient Israel, the "handwritten document," the requirements of which were done away with at Jesus' impalement, still have much to say about God's sense of justice, and is a worthy read and study, to help us see the seriousness of various sins--the weight of more serious and lesser sins. Jehovah may still use principles of this Law in His standards of justice in dealing with wrongdoers. For instance, the Law stated that a thief typically had to pay back four times what he stole from others. Depending on the situation, however, this could vary up or down. By such standards, a person may learn that "treasures gained by wickedness will prove to be of no benefit." (Prove 10:2).
Psalm 28:5,6 We need to pay attention to the righteous activities of Jehovah, that we may "become imitators of God, as beloved children." (Ephes 5:1). He still sets the ultimate example in love, wisdom, and his just use of power. Jehovah does not bless those practicing evil, rather He will tear down what they are building. In fact, "Unless Jehovah builds the house, It is in vain that its builders work hard on it." (Psalm 127:1). May we turn to Jehovah for His blessing on our activities, seeking to work in harmony with the just and fair standards of God, finding His blessing and approval!
Psalm 89 (Book 3, 17th psalm continued) Yesterday's consideration of verses 38-41 was updated late with a key explanation of why we still may experience injustice at this time, in this system of things. Some wonder why God may allow even good people to lose their lives. Please reconsider yesterday's take on Psalm 89, if you're able, search "Jan 27". We'll continue with verses 42-45:
"42 You have made his adversaries victorious; You have caused all his enemies to rejoice. 43 You have also driven back his sword, And you have made him lose ground in the battle. 44 You have brought an end to his splendor And hurled his throne to the ground. 45 You have cut short the days of his youth; You have clothed him with shame." (Selah)
Thus we see in verses 38-45 that there may well be a time of distress that will severely pain God's anointed one, his chosen ruler. Even "all his enemies" will rejoice at this humiliating breach. Nevertheless, Jehovah is still in control, and will not let this event ruin His purpose for His people and all mankind. May we continually trust in Jehovah, seeking His guidance and direction, and whatever protections He may provide through these days, until His Kingdom begins and true peace and happiness is ushered in for all.
2Thessalonians 3:6 Paul begins a discussion regarding some who were "walking disorderly" among the Christians, not following the example set by Paul in certain matters. Primarily in this case, there were some who were showing themselves lazy, not industrious. They were refusing to work, and "meddling with what does not concern them." (v. 11). They were constantly eating food provided by others, while Paul had set an example of working "night and day" to provide such things. Paul was therefore not advocating a lack of compassion, but rather a stern form of discipline for such ones, that they may learn to "eat food they themselves earn." (v. 12) Then, they may once again enjoy more fellowship with fellow believers. May we not take undue advantage of one another, but seek to provide for ourselves and our families, while setting aside a little to share with someone in true need of assistance. Some may not have been raised with the right view of things, and may not have all the necessary skills, but God can bless their efforts to use what they have and to gain more. They may need to gain more wisdom in these matters, to avoid having a lazy view, to become more industrious and diligent (James 1:5; Prove 21:5) May such ones pray for the wisdom needed to mend their ways, and seek to find it.
Find Life and See
Between Winchester, Virginia, and hopefully, Washington D.C., having confidence that our thankful trust in God will not fail to inspire us to the peace He has purposed via His Kingdom!
