Today's Word of Encouragement

THE SAVING WORD OF GOD
Friday, May 22, 2020

     The ‘Tau’ (T) section of Psalm 119 (vv. 169-176) is the last section of this marvelous song on the excellency of God’s Word. In this conclusion to the Psalm, King David drew together everything expressed throughout the song:

    • He asked God for a deeper understanding of His Word,
    • He asked for continued deliverance from his enemies,
    • He praised God for His grace,
    • He was thankful to God for His help and guidance.

   In his summary, David again recognized his failures, his flaws, his sinfulness. But he asked that the Lord would not let his weaknesses stand in the way of hearing and answering his prayers.

    Let my supplication come before You; deliver (save) me according to Your word (v. 170).
    Let Your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen Your precepts (v.173).
    I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek Your servant, for I do not forget Your commandments (v. 176).

     Such was not the prayer of the Pharisee in Luke 18:11-12. Such is not the prayer of those preoccupied with themselves and their ‘wants’. Salvation is not on their heart or mind, for they believe they have no need of it.
     But the humble heart, even that of the great King David, bows before the Lord in brokenness, realizing he is unworthy of God’s attention, let alone His grace, mercy, or deliverance.

    The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18).
    The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise (Psalm 51:17).

     “Father, remove my arrogant spirit and hard heart, and replace them with a spirit of humility and a heart of flesh that pulses with love and gratitude for You, Your Word, and Your salvation.” Amen.

Pastor Martin