Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule: Psalm 31-32; Acts 16
Devotional Thought:
The emphasis of Psalm 31 is on trusting in the Lord, no matter how difficult the circumstances might be. (vs. 1, 6, 14, 19) It carries the picture of taking refuge from danger. David was surrounded by the sneaky, slanderous attacks of wicked conspirators (vs. 8, 13, 15, 18, 20), and everything seemed against him. Even his friends and neighbors did not want to be seen with him (vs. 11-13), and there was the constant fear of destruction. (vs .13) Many scholars disagree on the time and events that are leading David to write this Psalm, but my opinion is that this is written during the rebellion of Absalom when David is driven from the palace. For many months, Absalom led a secret campaign against his father, and even Ahithophel, David’s wisest counselor and close friend, deserted him and followed Absalom. The Bible talks much about the danger the tongue can create and the immeasurable damage that can be done. James tells us that the tongue is a world of iniquity that no man can tame. I am so thankful that if I yield this little member over to the Lord, He can tame it. David starts this Psalm expressing his constant confidence in God and in His power to help. David states several things we must do when we are attacked. (1) Trust in God’s righteousness. He always does what is right and we can trust in His righteousness. (2) Stand in the strength of the Lord. Do not have a pity party and draw attention to yourself, but rather stand firm and confidently upon the rock of your salvation. (3) Hide in the refuge of the arms of Jesus. He will guide us according to all that is revealed in His name. (4) Believe that God will spare you from the trap of your enemies. Nothing can happen to the child of God except that God would allow it. When God allows it, we can be sure it is for a Divine purpose that ultimately will bring glory to God if we respond properly. (5) Rest in the assurance that we are bought by God and He will protect us in His truth. (6) Remember, you do not make anybody else’s decisions, but you make all of your own. David said that he hated lying, manipulation, and conspiracies, but he trusted in the Lord. (7) Claim the mercy of God that is new every morning. “I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy; for thou hast considered my troubles; thou hast known my soul in adversities.” David is a great example of how we should handle situations where people are trying to destroy our reputation or life. “For I have heard the slander of many: fear was on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life. But I trusted in thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my God.” (vs. 13-14) We make such terrible decisions and so many mistakes when we try to take matters into our own hands. David trusted the Lord and waited on Him to give the victory. “Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in the pavilion from the strife of tongues.” (vs. 20) David closes this Psalm with a tremendous challenge and great encouragement. “O love the Lord, all ye his saints: for the Lord preserveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud doer. Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.” (vs. 23-24)
Personal Requests:
• Lord, please help me to run to you in times of trouble. I know you know what is best and can help me do right in every situation.
• Lord, thank you for being my refuge, strength, and protector. I am so grateful for your faithfulness to extend mercy to me. Please help me to be willing to extend mercy to others as well.
• Lord, help me to love you more each day. I want to find my fulfillment, satisfaction, and purpose in you.