“A PSALM OF TRUST” - continued

Psalm 27

The Test of Confidence (vv. 2-3)

Note the mounting crescendo of opposition against David. Often there seems to be a mounting crescendo of opposition that we face whether in the form of people or pressure of circumstances. And, alas, very rarely does the individual wave break upon our life. Many times they are followed by others.

James speaks of this gathering storm in James 1:2. Paul addresses it in Romans 8:35 and Job experienced it in Job 1:2 suffering the loss of animals, servants, children, and health. We may liken it to the buildup of the surf.

In spite of all this opposition, David said, “I shall be confident” (see Romans 8:31-39).

Safety does not consist in the absence of danger - but in the presence of God.

A Stanza of Commitment (vv. 4-5)

• Confidence leads to a greater commitment. David’s desire was to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of his life. The House of the Lord was the tabernacle/temple - the place in the Old Testament where a godly Jew went to learn of God and to serve Him.

• To behold the beauty of the Lord which is pleasant, good, or full of grace (c.f. Philippians 4:8). The character of God is attractive. Individual colors of a rainbow have a certain beauty, but it is when all the colors are seen in their blended radiance that we really see the intrinsic beauty of the rainbow. To behold the beauty of the Lord is to study His multi-faceted character.

• To inquire in His temple. David had committed himself to becoming acquainted with God and His ways - of loving the things of the Father - of feeling familiar and at home with truth (see Luke 10:42, Phil. 3:10-14, Col. 3:1-4). This exercise builds trust and confidence. You can trust someone only as well as you know him. This explains why David can make the statement in verse 5, “In time of trouble He shall hide me.”

David’s Praise of the Lord (v. 6)

David’s confidence in and commitment to the Lord results in praise. “I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.” We Christians are to offer the sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15). There is power in praise (II Chronicles 20.)

Beloved - we can come to God’s Word depressed and go away rejoicing and ready to take on the world. Fear and inner turmoil subside as we tap into His presence. I challenge you this week to spend quality time in the Word.

Love to you all.