Rock, Strength, Fortress

I was reading Psalm 28 recently and wanted to share this with you. The Psalms were a song book for God’s people. This one begins addressing God, “To you I call, O Lord my Rock; do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who have gone down to the pit.” He calls God his rock because he is the sure foundation that never fails. There is the deep understanding that if God were to turn away from us, we would all be condemned. This is why the Bible tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. The only One who can condemn us to the depths of hell is God Himself. David, the author, doesn’t just cry out in hopes that some how, some way, this plea might be heard. “Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place.” He lifts his hands in surrender and worship to God, toward the Most Holy Place where they attributed His presence. The next thing David does is pray for justice. He speaks of those that have no regard for God. David didn’t want to see the wicked prosper, but that they face the consequences of their deeds. How many times I have longed for justice, but then I remember if there was a true accounting of sin, none of us could stand. It is true, even though we all sin, there are those that have turned their back on God and rejoice in what is evil. David doesn’t leave us hanging here but turns our eyes back to God. “Praise be to the Lord, for he has heard my cry for mercy. The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” David is rejoicing for God has indeed been merciful to him, even as He is merciful to us today. David knew that with God as his ‘strength and shield’, there was nothing that he need fear. David trusted God fully and rejoiced with much thanksgiving. There was a song on His heart. Have you ever been so thankful, on top of the world spiritually, that your heart is filled with praise. Lastly, “The Lord is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one. Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.” Father, may a song of praise and thanksgiving always fill our hearts, for whether in plenty or in want, You alone are our God. Amen