Clergy/Leaders’ Mail-list No. 0-175 (Bible Reading Notes)

PSALM 27 (From ‘Encounter with God’ – Sunday 03 Sep 2000)

THE SINGLE-MINDED BELIEVER

If you had one wish, what would it be?

This psalm has much in common with the previous one oppression by malicious foes, a steady desire to be in the house of God, repentance and hope. In contrast to the patient endurance of Psalm 26, this one has turned a corner: joy enlivens voice and feet, and hope empowers activism. The book of Psalms covers all our moods.

The military language of the early verses may derive from a warrior- king’s meditation, but it also serves as a metaphor for the individual believer’s tussle with spiritual foes. Settings of conflict vary from the battlefield (v 3), to the courtroom (v 12), to the home (v 10). Contrasting images express security in God’s presence stronghold, temple, tent, rock fortress (vs 1,46). He is our true habitat.

With great emphasis ‘one thing I ask’ the psalmist affirms a desire to seek God and live in his presence (vs 4,5). These are not just words but the heart’s desire (v 8). How can we be as passionate as this about our relationship with God? A religion of duty will never arouse such feeling; only a faith born of gratitude. How much more than the psalmist should we be shouting with joy, knowing that we have been reconciled to God through the death of Christ. (See 2 Cor 5:19)

The final two verses have a ring of confidence about them despite life’s pressures, again using emphatic words to show that waiting for the Lord is not a passive resignation but a bold resolve to ‘get up and get going’. The words ‘be strong’ echo the bracing words of Moses to Joshua as he handed over the reins of leadership. (See Deut 31:6) They speak of faith in action, not scurrying for shelter. Is there a spring in your step?

Consider what grounds you have for joy, and give thanks and praise to God. Then claim the courage to do what you must do.

– Brian Hill

Copyright Scripture Union, 2000

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