Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule: Psalm 63-65
Devotional Thought:
Psalm 63 is most likely written while David is in the wilderness of Judah hiding from Absalom who is trying to take over the kingdom. It certainly would have been easy for him to look back on his failures as a father, but David is not dwelling on the past. Learning from our mistakes is necessary or we are destined to repeat them; however, dwelling on the mistakes will only lead to discouragement. David was also not looking around at his present situation or the uncomfortable and even dangerous circumstances in which he now finds himself. David was used to sitting in a palace, enjoying the finer things his wealth had afforded, but in the wilderness there were no luxuries or comforts. However, David was not looking around at his present situation, but rather David looks up to his Heavenly Father and rejoices in His presence, purpose, and power. “O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; to see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.” (vs. 1-2) How long can you go without really talking with the Lord? How long can you go without spending quality time in your devotions hearing from God? David longed for the company of the Lord. He desired the love, mercy, and tenderness of the Lord. David pictures for us in this Psalm the precious intimacy he enjoyed with the Lord that moved God to speak of him as a man after His own heart. David had plenty of selfish moments, but he also was good at accepting consequences, admitting conviction, actively confessing, and addressing necessary change. In his praise to the Lord (vs. 5), David begins to reminisce about his confidence in God, commitment to God, and consequences of his enemies. David enjoyed the security of his position in Christ. Colossians 2:10 explains, “we are complete in Him.” Have you thought about your position in Christ lately? You need nothing from this world. As God’s children, we do not need to fear, fret, or be frustrated. We are strangers and pilgrims here just passing through. Our tour of duty will soon be over, and we will be face to face with our Commander and Chief. Will it be a happy reunion for you, or will it feel more like an introduction? David challenges us in this chapter to pursue and enjoy the wonderful relationship we have with Christ.
Personal Requests:
• Lord, please help me to be grateful for my position in Christ. I have been given your perfection, power, purity; why would I ever exchange that for something from this world.
• Lord, thank you for holding me in your right hand and sheltering me in the shadow of your almighty wing. I have a wonderful refuge from the attacks of the enemy.
• Lord, please help me spend time reminiscing about your goodness, greatness, and grace. You have blessed me beyond measure and I am so very thankful.