📅 February 1: Psalm 58, 59 - Seeking Justice in Trying Times

Daily Bible Readings February
, , ,
1

1.2.1.2-psa58-59v0
1.2.1.2-psa58-59v01024×1024 88.3 KB

:date: February 1: Psalm 58, 59 - Seeking Justice in Trying Times

:earth_africa: Introduction

Regardless of our current circumstances, we can find solace in the Psalms created by individuals who encountered just as many, if not more, trials and tribulations as we have. Today, we delve into Psalm 58 and 59, where David, entangled in difficult times, exhibits an unwavering faith in God’s justice.

:dagger: Psalm 58: An Intense Cry for Justice

David, dealing with his adversaries, speaks out against their wickedness and calls for divine retribution.
:scroll: Key Verse: Psalm 58:11

“Then people will say, ‘Surely the righteous still are rewarded; surely there is a God who judges the earth.’”

This entire Psalm encapsulates the heart’s cry for justice in an unjust world, anchored by the unyielding belief in divine fairness.

:shield: Psalm 59: Divine Protection Against Enemies

In this Psalm, amidst adversaries plotting against his life, David expresses full reliance on God, affirming His role as a defender.
:scroll: Key Verse: Psalm 59:16

“But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.”

:sparkles: Key Themes and Reflections

Here, we see the theme of seeking divine justice and God as our refuge. These Psalms remind us that God’s justice prevails over all human circumstances and sustaining faith in Him ensures strength and protection.

:bulb: Today’s Application

This reading encourages us to understand that seeking justice starts with ourselves. We must strive to maintain our integrity and continue doing what’s right, even when nobody is watching. It stresses that we must also lean on God in trying times, recognizing Him as our refuge and source of strength.

:mag: Hidden Gem

Notice how David, despite the strong language against his enemies in these Psalms, does not act on his own. Instead, he entrusts everything to God, showing true reliance on His divine power.

:thought_balloon: Reflective Q&A

:question: What does justice look like in your life?
A: Your answer may vary but may include standing up for what’s right, helping those in need, or ensuring fair treatment of others.

:question: How can you learn to trust God as your refuge when facing trials?
A: This might involve daily prayer, studying His promises in Scripture, or sharing your burdens with trusted spiritual mentors.

:question: How could the themes of these Psalms apply to current global situations?
A: They could apply to issues such as the ongoing pandemic, political unrest, social injustice, etc., encouraging faith and righteous action amidst crises.

:speech_balloon: Join the Discussion

Reflect on these Psalms and share your stories of witnessing God’s justice or how you have sought refuge in Him. We’d love to hear your insights.

:date: See You Tomorrow in Psalm 60, 61

Dive with us into David’s moving pleas for help and the unfailing trust he places in God’s saving power. As we face our own trials, may we too learn to rely on God as our ultimate protector.

2

Psalms 58,59
Psa. 58 sets out a call for judgment on unscrupulous leaders of the nation: [1] Rebuke of hypocritical leaders: vv. 1-5. [2] A plea for God to restrain them: vv. 6-9. [3] The vindication of the righteous: vv. 10-11. David always recognised that he lived under the canopy of divine mercy, and refused to take vengeance on king Saul, on account that he was the appointed “Yahweh’s Anointed.” It was not the man, but the status of the man as the King of God’s assignment, that caused David to act towards Saul in the wise way he did. But there were many of the ilk of Saul in the nation, hypocritical leaders who supported the king in his wickedness (as the leaders of the ecclesia did later in the days of the Lord Yahshua). It is a reflection of the divine edict against the spirit of the serpent in Genesis 3, and now the Psalmist points to the poison of the viper’s mouth in Psa. 58:4. They were venomous and harmful folk, and desired to reap vengeance against the spiritual. Indeed they were like a “deaf adder,” the name given to a snake that does not respond to the appeal of the charmers. All snakes are deaf – though they have some capacity to sense vibrations through the ground (their natural environment!). A snake is charmed through the movement of the pipe, not the sound. So nothing can convert the serpent mind. For that reason, the Psalmist then pleads with God to restrain such characters (vv. 6-9). To “break their teeth” is to remove their biting and wicked words. This was certainly true of the ruthless Saul, and such as the evil Doeg (and those who pursued the Lord), and those today who would venomously attack those of the spirit of David. Because of that, the time is coming when great rejoicing will pour from the mouths of the righteous (v. 10). Then it will vindicate the exalted character of the great Creator – the Being who “judgeth in the earth” (v. 11). Psalm 59 continues as a prayer for help and an expression of trust in the face of unprincipled foes. It is a prayer that concludes in a song of victory and joy (v. 17), and a proclamation of assurance in the divine goodness. Thus: [1] A plea for help: vv. 1-5. [2] A promise of patience: vv. 6-9. [3] A pronouncement of confidence: vv. 10-13. [4] A proclamation of assurance: vv. 14-17. What a thrilling and encouraging voice in the present days of darkness. — Logos.