Monday 13th April
Read Psalm 4
Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!2 O men, how long shall my honour be turned into shame?How long will you love vain words and seek after lies? Selah. 3 But know that the Lord has set apart the godly for himself;the Lord hears when I call to him.4 Be angry, and do not sin;ponder in your own hearts on your beds and be silent. Selah5 Offer right sacrifices and put your trust in the Lord.6 There are many who say, “Who will show us some good?Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!”7 You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep;or you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
This is another prayer psalm, initially another prayer of complaint from a distressed man and David asks for God to hear and answer his prayer. The God who he turns to brings righteousness and He will hear those who are His faithful followers as has been the case in the past. Verse 2 is a little difficult to be sure who is speaking but possibly it an expression of recognition that opposition to David is challenging God’s glory and righteousness, a consequence of a majority seeking other gods. Certainly, vs3 reinforces the very personal relationship between David and God; God will hear those who seek His mercy and are faithful. The next verses give advice to those who are causing David grief; examine yourselves and recognise your sin, offer the sacrifice of trust in the Lord. If you do this then the light of God’s face will shine. When I know God’s care I find all I need for my wellbeing, security and joy, I can sleep in peace.
Geoff Hinch
