I read, and re-read this psalm. Quickly, slowly, in my mind, out loud. It speaks to me, but I can’t figure out how to write down how I feel. In this short psalm the psalmist goes from despair, to humble realization, to hope, to joyful expectation. The story of my life, my days. It sounds like many of my prayers. Read, and re-read again.

Babylon – called tender and delicate, the mistress of kingdoms, lovers of pleasures. Proud of their wisdom, knowledge and charm, relying on enchantment, sorcery and astrology. Seems harmless enough – especially in this generation. But God pronounced judgement against them? Why is that?

To be fair, Israel has had – in their history – times when they were described in similar terms. What’s the difference? The difference is Humility, Confession, Repentance. 4000 years later, Babylon is no more, but Israel – represented by the people of God – remains.

You felt secure in your wickedness, you said, “No one sees me”; your wisdom and your knowledge led you astray, and you said in your heart, “I am, and there is no one besides me.” (Isaiah 47:10 ESV)

People who – in their wisdom and knowledge – deny God’s very existence have been around for 4000 years. In their hearts they believe they are right. Time will tell, when troubles come – and they come to everyone – what people believe will be put to test. For the repentant we should respond with abounding grace. For the stubborn..

Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. (Colossians 2:6, 7 ESV)

Walk in Him (=Journey)
Rooted in Him (=Foundation)
Built up and Established in Him (=Growth)
Abound in Thanksgiving (=Attitude)

These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh. (Colossians 2:23 ESV)

Human-made, human-centric rules are not effective. Though it seems logical. Even I myself, with a sincere desire to be a better follower of Christ, have made some “rules” for myself to follow. The problem is that it is easy to fall into the trap of relying on the rules rather than on the relationship. The relationship is powerful, nurture it. Nurture the relationship instead of adding or tweaking the rules. Trust in the power that comes with a close relationship with God.

I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save. (Isaiah 46:4b ESV)

Remember this and stand firm (Isaiah 46:8a ESV)

I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it. (Isaiah 46:11bESV)

Praise God, our Creator, Redeemer, Strength and Savior. Remember, remember, always remember. He is forever faithful, he is more than able, he always keeps his promises. His love is great, as shown by his amazing grace. Thank you Lord.

When you go into battle in your own land against an enemy who is oppressing you, sound a blast on the trumpets. Then you will be remembered by the Lord your God and rescued from your enemies. (Numbers 10:9 NIV)

God says “when”, not “if”. The promise is yours, but not without challenges. Your oppressor is fierce and overwhelming, but nothing – absolutely nothing – compared to your God. Let the trumpet sound, let it remind you. Go set it up, your “virtual” silver trumpet 🙂 It’s not as cool as an actual trumpet, but it should serve the same purpose.

And whenever the ark set out, Moses said, “Arise, O Lord, and let your enemies be scattered, and let those who hate you flee before you.” (Numbers 10:35 ESV)