Scripture Reading(s)
Psalm 52
52:1 Why do you boast, O mighty one, of mischief done against the godly? All day long
52:2 you are plotting destruction. Your tongue is like a sharp razor, you worker of treachery.
52:3 You love evil more than good, and lying more than speaking the truth. Selah
52:4 You love all words that devour, O deceitful tongue.
52:5 But God will break you down forever; he will snatch and tear you from your tent; he will uproot you from the land of the living. Selah
52:6 The righteous will see, and fear, and will laugh at the evildoer, saying,
52:7 “See the one who would not take refuge in God, but trusted in abundant riches, and sought refuge in wealth!”
52:8 But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever.
52:9 I will thank you forever, because of what you have done. In the presence of the faithful I will proclaim your name, for it is good.
Reflections
One thing we can always know to be true is that the steadfast love of God endures forever. This Psalm teaches us lesson son the futility of evil, the final triumph of righteousness, and God’s ultimate and sovereign control over the events of this world.
David is writing about how even though the wicked plot to commit evil acts, they are without question still being controlled by God. David was writing this from a perspective that danger and wickedness was very real in his life. However, he never forgets who has the final say and because of that, we bear witness to David’s declaration of God’s goodness over evil.
No matter what plot was made against David, God’s hand prevailed and rescued him. God’s love for us is a strong and powerful source that will always keep us safe and secure in His hands.
When Moses delivered the Laws of the Lord to Israel there were blessings and curses contained in the summary. Blessings for those who abided by the righteous laws of God and curses for those who did evil and turn their backs on the Lord. Some 700 years later the Psalmist wrote Psalm 52 and reiterated that those who put their lives in the hands of the Lord will be like a green olive tree. Those who scoff at the Lord and righteousness will be uprooted.
God’s desires for us has never changed. From Abraham to Moses to Josiah, to Jesus, God has been calling all people to dwell in the presence of God and to live justly. He has called us to be trees that produce good fruit. We are called to love our neighbors and pray for our enemies. If we are willing to walk in the ways of the Lord we are promised eternity in the light of the Lord.
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