Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule: Psalm 10-12; Acts 10
Devotional Thought:
In chapter nine, David is concerned about the problems created by the wicked around him; however, in chapter ten David is concerned about the problems created within Israel proper. There are many Israelites who believe that there is a God, but they live as though there is no God or no final judgment. They are practical atheists who are their own gods and do whatever they please. David goes through great pains to describe the hypocrite who presents himself as a wicked person. First, the wicked is inconsiderate to the poor. (vs. 2) He is not sympathetic to their condition, but rather takes the opportunity to prey upon them. Second, the wicked is impressed with the covetous. (vs. 3) It is a sad thing when people violate God’s plan for their own desires and plans. Thirdly, the wicked is obsessed with himself. (vs. 4) He is a person who constantly talks about himself. He does not concern himself with God’s word, worth, or work. “God is not in all his thoughts.” Fourthly, the wicked is conceited in his own sin. (vs. 5-8) He does not believe there will ever be consequences for his sin. He is arrogantly thumbing his nose at the principles, promises, and practice of God’s word. Fifthly, the wicked is crafty for his own gain. (vs. 9-10) This wicked person is filled with deceit, destruction, and devastation. He is willing to present himself in any light in order to accomplish his own selfish agenda. Sixthly, the wicked is convinced God will never see his selfishness. How sad that so many are so blinded by their own conceit that they cannot even sees the reality of their own depravity. David’s heart is broke over the haughtiness of these hypocrites. He is greatly concerned regarding the future of Israel with so many who seems to function as if God does not exist. In the rest of this chapter, David cries out for mercy, grace, and strength for the humble and obedient. “Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up thine hand: forget not the humble.” (vs. 12) David knows that God will not let the wicked get away with their pride forever. He is convinced that God’s judgment is just around the corner. He is sure that God will root the selfish hypocrite out of Israel. Therefore, he asks one last request for those who delight in God and have humbled themselves in obedience to God. “LORD, thou hast heard the desire of the humble: thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear: To judge the fatherless and the oppressed, that the man of the earth may no more oppress.” (vs. 17-18) What a responsibility we have to live humbly before our God.
Personal Requests:
• Lord, please help me to be humble. Please help me to realize that I belong to you. You are my master and you have every right to tell me how to think and act.
• Lord, thank you for your patience with me. Thank you for the conviction of the Holy Spirit in my heart, and for His constant and consistent direction in my life. Thank you for showing me what is right and what is wrong.