You have set up a banner for those who fear you,
to rally to it out of bowshot. Selah
Psalm 60:4
Observation: As David gives a short lament for the challenges he has, he adds this comforting fact. The Lord provides a refuge from the problems. In the metaphor, the Lord provides a banner - a flag - far enough away from the battlefield to be untouchable by the activities of the battle. It is there for anyone in need of safety, and who look to the Lord for their safety.
Application: I have still been in thought about the problems of our current time, and about how society is so lost that there is clear conflict between the "rightness" of societal norms, and the truth of the Lord. I wonder if there is any hope for me to live out my life in safety from greater persecution, and if there is any hope for my children to be prosperous within such a context. Further still, I wonder how we can a peaceful life when around us is such continual anger and pain.
However, David reminds me ... Yahweh-Nissi ... the Lord is my banner.
It isn't just that the battle about widespread culture is not mine to fight. It is that, even in the context of such a battle, there is refuge for anyone who looks to the Lord as their hope. Yahweh is my (our) rallying point. He is where we turn to and find that, even when the battle is occurring, we are out of range from the danger. We are in a place of peace.
Prayer: Lord, today I embrace the promise of your peaceful refuge. I know hard times and persecution will come. I know it is possible that I may lose my very life itself, and probably I will lose elements of my life, as I hold to my faith, obey your word, reject the world, and cling to your hope. Yet you are a source of calm, peace, and safety. You will keep me safe according to your plans. I pray this for myself, but even more so for my family and for the faithful around me. As earthly anger thrives, may we rally to you and find joy and peace. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment