Psalm 86:11-17 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 86:11-17 on biblegateway.com
Verse 11Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart to revere your name.
Verse 12I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever.
Verse 13For great is your steadfast love toward me; you have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.
Verse 14O God, the insolent rise up against me; a band of ruffians seeks my life, and they do not set you before them.
Verse 15But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.
Verse 16Turn to me and be gracious to me; give your strength to your servant; save the child of your serving girl.
Verse 17Show me a sign of your favor, so that those who hate me may see it and be put to shame, because you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me.
Devotion
When I read through this section of Psalm 86, I am drawn to verse 14, "The arrogant are attacking me...(they) seek my life-men without regard for you." (NIV)I wonder, who are the arrogant? As a pastor, I struggle each Sunday with who is hearing what parts of each sermon. Who will hear the gospel as "gospel?" But...who will hear the gospel as "law?" Furthermore, who will leave the doors after worship, only to return to a normal life, hiding in fear of ever actually proclaiming a faithful, Christian life to the people met throughout the week. In other words, I wonder if our culture even knows how this Psalm writer feels-fearing those who persecute you because you are Christian. I wonder if I, myself may be the "arrogant" one at times, in which these words seek protection. It's a question we should all ask ourselves.
Prayer
God of comfort, give us the ability to seek you out. Give us the ability to live out your Gospel in this world. Give us the ability to take comfort in knowing that you truly are the protector and giver of life to all who seek to live in your Word. Guide us this day into your saving grace. Amen.