PSALMS‬ ‭4‬:‭1‬-‭8‬ ‭‬‬


”Answer me when I call to you, O God who declares me innocent. Free me from my troubles. Have mercy on me and hear my prayer. How long will you people ruin my reputation? How long will you make groundless accusations? How long will you continue your lies? Interlude You can be sure of this: The Lord set apart the godly for himself. The Lord will answer when I call to him. Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent. Interlude Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust the Lord. Many people say, “Who will show us better times?” Let your face smile on us, Lord. You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.“
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Psalms‬ ‭4‬:‭1‬-‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

David was acutely aware of his faults and failings. Yet, he also knew when who he was, both before men and God. Some would challenge that and little could be done except turn to God. It is only God who knows the hearts of men. It is only he who is allowed to judge. Some might think it strange that David appears to almost command God, but it is not the case. David is prophesying about God’s character. He is speaking boldly to a god who is just and righteous. He knows that he is safe with him and only him. This is an echo of how Moses pleaded with God on behalf of Israel. There too, Moses spoke boldly to God on the basis of God’s character and plans. We do not need to hide our pain or sorrow when we encounter unjust persecution or hardships. Here we see that it is appropriate to speak freely with God on the basis of what he has revealed. Bu if we are willing to accept his character, we must also be willing to accept his timing and will. It might be God’s good will to crush us. Not everything we ask will be given, but we can trust that, if it is in line with his character, we can have every confidence that he will not be angry with us for asking him to be himself.


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