Seventh Day Baptist
Christian Education Council
PO BOX 1678
Janesville, WI 53547
Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men;
preserve me from violent men,
who plan evil things in their heart
and stir up wars continually.
They make their tongue sharp as a serpent’s,
and under their lips is the venom of asps. Selah
Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked;
preserve me from violent men,
who have planned to trip up my feet.
The arrogant have hidden a trap for me,
and with cords they have spread a net;
beside the way they have set snares for me. Selah
I say to the LORD, You are my God;
give ear to the voice of my pleas for mercy, O LORD!
O LORD, my Lord, the strength of my salvation,
you have covered my head in the day of battle.
Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked;
do not further their evil plot, or they will be exalted! Selah
As for the head of those who surround me,
let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them!
Let burning coals fall upon them!
Let them be cast into fire,
into miry pits, no more to rise!
Let not the slanderer be established in the land;
let evil hunt down the violent man speedily!
I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted,
and will execute justice for the needy.
Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name;
the upright shall dwell in your presence.
(ESV)
—Psalm 140
by: Kay Samuels.
As I read this chapter and reflect on what I have read about David, I imagine him running with his sword in his hand and dodging behind trees—while uttering prayers (I may have watched too much TV). David certainly prayed some very damaging prayers over his enemies. In the midst of his anguish, David recognized God as his strong deliverer and shield. He also expressed faith in God’s impartial justice (v.12). David certainly experienced the ways in which the Lord secures justice. Like David, we can rest assured that justice will be served. Whatever injustice you may be experiencing, wait on God. He will secure your justice.
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