Acts 17
Psalm 41
Blessed is the one who considers the poor!
Psalm 41:1
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7
Some of us might be on a sickbed. But if not, when do we have time to reflect on the things of God? We need to make time to search our hearts. Those reflective moments could be during those sleepless or restless nights, or waiting for the children after school, or making time with God in the quiet early hours.
In this psalm, David is reflecting on his life.
First, he looks backwards (verse 1-3). David is encouraged that he had been merciful and considerate to the poor. We need to ask ourselves: Do we have a concern for the needy, the helpless, and the weak? Have we lived a life of integrity in this regard? But of course, even if we have served those less fortunate, we always fall short, and we need to confess our selfishness and sinful behaviour, just like David does in verse 4.
Then (verses 5-8), he looks around at his present life, and is overwhelmed by the abandonment and gossip, in particular by those close to him. Being betrayed by friends is incredibly hurtful (cf John 13:18). Your present circumstances may be very difficult; go to the Lord in prayer, and remember how our Lord was betrayed by those close to Him for our sake.
And lastly, he looks up to God (verses 10-12). In times of hurt and anxiety turn to the Lord in prayer, and God’s presence will give us a peace that passes all understanding, and will lead to praise and worship (verse 13). “Sometimes, how you feel, depends on where you look”, Wiersbe (cf Hebrews 12:20).
In conclusion, may we all examine our hearts, and ask ourselves, how we are serving God by serving others. We also need to guard our tongues, as God will hold us accountable for every careless word we utter (Matthew.12:36).
“O Lord, be gracious to me; heal me, for I have sinned against you!” Psalm 41:5
Ref: Varner, Williams “Awake O Harp”; NBC, Carson et al