Daily Devotionals

may 7, 2021

The Lord reigns forever;
    he has established his throne for judgment.
He rules the world in righteousness
    and judges the peoples with equity.

The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed,
    a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know your name trust in you,
    for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

 

Psalm 9:7-10

Sometimes a Psalm gives us a prayer that was told to God. Many Psalms are filled with lament, crying out because of loss or worry or concern. A few record history and others ask God for protection, safety, or to meet a need. Yet the Psalms are perhaps best known for the ways they offer praise to God. This section of Psalm 9 is no exception, offering pure and unfiltered praise for God’s character and God’s mighty acts.

 

Let’s take a look at the specific items for which the Psalmist praises God:

 

  • God’s reign and God’s rule indicate that God has dominion, has power, and is sovereign over our lives;
  • The throne of judgment reminds us that God is at work in the world to eliminate evil and advance the purposes for which He established the world;
  • God’s righteousness and fairness are emphasized, reminding us that God is not random or capricious. God acts in fairness and can be trusted to do what is right;
  • God is a refuge for the oppressed, offering hope and healing to those who do not have recourse to the things many of us take for granted;
  • We can lean on God, especially in times of trouble. Naming God as a ‘stronghold’ reminds us that God is not a weak or ineffective helper for us in our times of need;
  • God can always be trusted. We never have to worry if God will hear us, turn His attention to us, or consider our situation. He can always be trusted to be present and to act on our behalf. He never forsakes us.

 

As we consider these truths about God, the most natural response is to praise God. We thank God for these truths, we honor God for who He is, we celebrate the goodness of God, and we worship a God who deserves the very best we can give.

For Reflection


As you reflect on each characteristic mentioned in these verses, which one stands out most to you as one you need to remember today?


for what part of God’s character and work do you want to praise Him right now?

Prayer


There are many reasons to worship You God. There are many reasons to praise You. Help me to do that more purposefully right now! For Your glory, amen.

Dr. Barry Gaeddert
Pastor for Spiritual Formation
404-842-2194