Be Still…

Read Psalm 2

This is one of several Messianic psalms, known by this name because they point to Jesus, the Messiah, and his ultimate reign.  David wrote this as he and his people believed that a Messiah would come.  I see the references, do you?  What about — “Chosen king” and “you are my son”.

We believe that Jesus rules, but his rule is now from the realms of heaven. As we are in the midst of the Advent season, we are reminded that Jesus will also return, and we during this time before Christmas focus on that and celebrate both his first and next coming.  We must be ready for Jesus.  What does that look like?

We can start by not dwelling on the silly things of our world and society that can distract us from our relationship with God.  I like verse 11 that says, “serve the Lord with reverent fear and rejoice with trembling.”  I don’t see this as a negative instruct, but rather “reverent” fear speaks to me as the deepest respect I can muster.  When I dig deep for that, how can I help but tremble with rejoicing that the Lord God loves me so!  The psalm rightly concludes “but what joy for all who find protection in him.”

Let’s pray.  Lord, I want to tremble today.  I want to be so attentive to you and your provisions for me that I truly reflect you in all I say and do. Prepare my heart to prepare the way for your return.  In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Read Psalm 1

What I see happening in this psalm is a compare and contrast between the godly life and that of the wicked.   Being given the choice to be a follower of Jesus or not is a gift, and, in and of itself, the freedom to choose one’s way can also be frightening.  I long to feel a deeper closeness to my creator, my loving heavenly Father, and this psalm is an encouragement and reminder of the goodness and rewards we celebrate as followers.  Oh what joy to have God watching over us!  Take a moment to just let that truth – that God is watching over you — truly sink in.  If you’re like me, the joy inside can’t help but start to gurgle!

So what do we do in response to these great promises.  For me, I need to focus more on the will of God for my life and less on my own strength.  I tend to feel pretty mighty at times.  Personally, I am at a turning point in my life, and I am waiting patiently for God’s direction.  I do yearn to help those close to me draw closer to God, and I pray he will use me in some miraculous way.

Let’s pray.  Father God, help each of us take a moment today to just delight in you and how you are directing our paths.  We confess that we are sinful, and we lay our faults, our guilt, our pain, our sadness, and our doubts at your feet.  Thank you for redeeming us.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.