Psalm 27:1-14
Q.1. Whom did David fear? What difference did this make? What was his greatest desire? How would this support him in times of trouble? – (Ps.27:1-6)
The way we live life is largely determined by whom we fear most – Fearing people lays a snare but the one who trusts in the Lord will be exalted sooner or later (Prov.29:25). Here David declared his fear of and trust in God alone, because – The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the defence of my life; Whom shall I dread? (Ps.27:1). Amid the attacks from numerous enemies – … My heart will not fear … and … In spite of this I shall be confident (Ps.27:3). David was totally God-focused, so could say – One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to meditate in His tabernacle (Ps.27:4). David knew that God’s presence and protection were not confined to just where the Tabernacle was pitched – For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His shelter; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock (Ps.27:5). Nevertheless, he fully expected to be delivered from his enemies, so that he could worship the Lord in the sanctuary, with sacrifices and joy (Ps.27:6).
Q.2. What was David’s understanding of religion? How did this influence his daily life? What was his prayer to God? How did this lift his spirit? – (Ps.27:7-14)
David’s religion expressed itself in every part of his life. There was nothing insincere or half-hearted about his approach to God. In everything, he wanted to see God’s hand, and wanted to please the Lord. His religion was personal and from his heart – When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, O Lord, I shall seek.” (Ps.27:8). He could cope when his family failed to support him, but he could not bear to feel forsaken by God (Ps.27:7-10). His relationship with God was never static or just routine. He yearned for God to develop his understanding of his Lord – Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a level path because of my foes (Ps.27:11). He expressed his underlying belief in how his faith in God helped him- I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord In the land of the living (Ps.27:13). Therefore, he could encourage others to – Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord (Ps.27:14).