How lovely is your dwelling place,
Lord of Armies.
Psalm 84:1
Observation: Despite this being a beautiful, poetic psalm, with its first line invoked in many songs over the ages, it twice attributes to the Lord his most intimidating military title ... Lord of Armies, Yahweh Tzevaot, Jehovah Sabaoth. This is the Lord of the strong tower, the military deliverer and protector, the one who leads the nation in war, the God who will defend his people through might and conflict.
It is this title that is then placed side-by-side with images that would invoke thoughts of peaceful harmony ... lovely dwellings, a sparrow's nest, the happy house of the Lord in heaven, a pleasant walk past springs of water. Selah
Application: It is obvious that I have been reflecting on the conflicts of our day and age lately, and openly wondering what the Lord will do. Will he defend his Church? Will he attack and destroy the evil influencing our culture? Will he allow our nation to be destroyed for its transgressions? Will there by any discrimination in his fury that is to come? Have we even done enough to earn his grace? Should I be desiring the Lord's wrath, or fearing it?
Well, maybe ... I should be simply leaning into the Lord's love and joys, finding peace in him, experiencing his peaceful Shalom by taking in wonderful walks, pleasant animals in nature, and the beautiful creation I dwell in, while I trust in the Lord's great might to simply do whatever it is he will do.
I need to quit worrying about the coming war. Jehovah Sabaoth's got that taken care of. I get to enjoy his love, pursue his will, and tell others of his loving mercy found in Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Lord, may I have your Shalom more and more every day. Your love is so great, and I spend so little time enjoying it. Whatever are the conflicts of the future, today or tomorrow or long off, I know you are in control of them. May that give me peace today. Amen.
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