Day 173

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King David Praying While on the Run

Weekly Devotional

June 21— Psalm 59: Prayer While Being Pursued

Reflection

John Calvin once wrote of the Psalms, "What various and resplendent riches are contained in this treasury. I call this book not inappropriately 'an anatomy of all parts of the soul,' for there is not an emotion that is not here represented as in a mirror." No doubt you can agree with the great theologian as you've read through this rich collection of prayers and praise.

Today let's mediate carefully on one psalm in particular as we pause in our daily walk through the Bible. In Psalm 59, David records his thoughts while he is pursued by King Saul's soldiers. Perhaps you're not literally running for your life as he was, but you may be experiencing the same feelings he did. Let's learn from his example.

Praise Him In the Midst!

Psalm 59 is a song of deliverance. Its title states, "Written by David at the time King Saul set guards at his home to capture and kill him." Go back and refresh your memory about the historical situation behind Psalm 59 in 1 Samuel 19:11.

Everyone from time to time finds the need to "eat on the run," and occasionally to "ask directions on the run," but have you learned yet to "praise on the run"?

Psalm 59 describes David as "on the run." Narrowly escaping Saul's murderous pursuit, David slipped out a back window and fled for his life. He was a fugitive, a pursued man, a man on the run. Perhaps finding a few minutes to stop and catch his breath, David took a pen in hand and composed the words of Psalm 59, a song of confident praise in the midst of being pursued.

It is easy to complain about the "enemies" all around you—the circumstances that invade your life bringing anxiety and uncertainty. It is easy to pray for God to judge those enemies and remove those circumstances. But can you, like David, praise God for those circumstances and respond with a joyful attitude of praise while "on the run"? After reading Psalm 59, complete this sentence: "Because God is my place of safety (59:16), today I will praise him 'on the run' by...."

Prayer

O God our safety, we want to join David in Singing your praises for your power and mercy, your strength and care. Nothing can happen to us unless you allow it, and you'll allow it only for our good. In that truth we rest thanking you for your unmatched love for us. In our Savior's name we pray! Amen!












© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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