Vindicate me… (Psalm 7) 240108
When I am in fear, it is not only because I am in fear of something which overpowering me externally, but it is a fear of something which is overcoming me from within. If the enemies are from outside, I know I can run to God to take refuge (v1). If I am going through trials and temptation from an external force, I know God will save me and deliver me from them (v1). But if there is something in my heart which I know will bring God’s wrath upon myself, I am really in fear. All I can do is to ask for mercy.
This Psalmist did not leave things to chance, he was very honest with God and himself. He asked if there is anything he had done wrong or he had committed any injustice which did not please God, he allowed justice to come upon him by his enemies (v3-5).
God is a God of wrath. God is a God of justice. He will not let injustice goes unpunished (v7). Today, I am reminded and encouraged by this Psalmist. Do not see only the speck in other people’s eyes, but check if there is a rod in my own eyes. Judge me, O Lord, according to what I have done (v8). Check not only my action, but my heart and mind (v9). I know this is a very dangerous prayer, but we have to be honest with God and with myself. Though there is no need for me to list down all my fanciful and lustful thoughts in my mind and evil intent in my heart, there is a need to keep confessing our sins, both that are known to us and those that are unknown to us.
This Psalm also reminds me that if a man does not repent, he is bringing upon himself judgment from the Lord directly (v12-16). God Himself will bring me to justice if I do not repent! I am fearful of this. I used to be in fear of God’s wrath and I know that no matter what I do, I will not be able to measure up to God’s Divine standard. But God is graciousness that all He requires of me is a repentance heart. He knows that I cannot be perfect, but His death on the Cross is perfected in me. He knows that I will certainty fail Him, but His grace and love can always pick us up again. This is the beauty of God. All He requires of me is my repentance heart and a grateful heart.
I will give thanks to the Lord and sing praise to His name Most High(v17). When a person stops to be thankful and stop singing praises to God, His life is unchecked. How can I be a mute to God’s goodness and lovingkindness if I have checked my life and be honest about it? I know how much I need God’s grace and forgiveness. If I have received God’s grace and forgiveness, how can I not give thanks and sing praises? Today, I give thanks and praises to God, for everything in my life. Because I know I am indebted to God, therefore, I am going to live a life of gratefulness.
I am thankful. Do you also have things to give thanks? I will continue to check my heart and mind. Are you going to check your heart and mind? Search me, O God! Vindicate me!
HHS…
Abel…
