Monday, April 1, 2013

Some days start out with a challenge, others with a blessing. In Psalm 118 the writer tells us an interesting story of oppression and deliverance. This is the Psalm that speaks of the stone the builders rejected becoming the Chief Cornerstone. It is the Psalm that inspired the song we frequently sing, “This is the Day which the Lord has Made.” It is a Psalm that encourages me that God is on my side and will deliver me from every downfall.

The Psalmist uses his faith in God and his voice in song for deliverance. He was attacked, but in the name of the Lord he fights back and destroys his enemies. His description of the enemy attack is graphic, describing them as a swarm of bees that try to force him onto his knees on the ground. Equally graphic is the deliverance where they become as thorns on fire, which will crackle and pop as they burn. In verse 15 it says that the voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tents of the righteous. In verses 19 and 20 it speaks of the gates of the righteous being our praise of God, and that we go through them. In 21 he praises God because He heard him and already answered. It is also interesting that after he understands that God already heard him, he cries out to God to send prosperity in verse 25 and beyond, where he proclaims that God sends His blessing upon us. Our Father God loves us, more than we can imagine. Be of good cheer, for Jesus has overcome the world!

Prayer
Father, thank you for hearing our prayers in times of distress. I ask Father that all those that read this receive a blessing while it is called today, that you fulfill their needs, that you raise up their heavy hearts. You are a righteous God. You love to hear our praises. You are our Deliverer, and man can do nothing to us! Thank you God for watching over Your people. Thank you for healing the broken hearted and raising up the downtrodden. Thank you for not forgetting us. Thank you for being King!