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Review
In modern times, we spend less and less time remembering. Technology allows us to depend on outside sources for information, as long as we know where to go for what we need. We are using our brains in a different way, and sometimes miss out on the value of deep reflection.
In this Psalm, written near the end of David’s life, David deeply reflects on His relationship with God, remembering all God has done for him.
David’s Perception vv. 1-3
David acknowledges several descriptors of God, including rock, fortress, and deliverer. We see that David has a personal, affectionate, multi-dimensional appreciation of God.
David’s Situation vv. 4-6
This section can refer to any number of situations David has faced. Note that David does not shy away from the real and raw emotions of distressful situations. The greatness of David’s distress sets the stage for the greatness of Yahweh’s rescue.
Yahweh’s Action vv. 7-18
God answered David’s cries through the years in mighty and powerful ways. David saw God move many times.
Yahweh’s Motivation vv. 19-32
It seems odd that with David’s history of sin (adultery, murder, pride), he would see himself as righteous. But David has accepted that he is righteous in God’s sight because of what God has done for him, not for what he has done for God. The righteousness God requires is the very righteousness He lavishly gives.
What mercies are you neglecting because you don’t see yourself this way?
Yahweh’s Provision vv. 33-45
God initiates, and David responds. God’s sovereign leadership empowers David, who responds in deep dependence.
We have many different needs in life – physical, emotional, mental, spiritual. What if needs are intentionally designed to deepen our dependence, reframe our expectations, and develop our trust in God?
When we have a need, we tend to ask, “Why, God?” or “Where are You?”
What if instead, we asked
“What are you revealing about Yourself?”
“How are you teaching me to trust?”
“Where are you calling me to participate?”
David had much to rejoice in despite the extremely difficult circumstances he often found himself in, even those of his own making. As we take time to remember and reflect, may we learn to trust God more, accept His gift, and participate with Him in His work.
Remember
We relate to God not on the basis of what we earn, but on the basis of what He gives.
Read
Review: Psalm 18 and 2 Samuel 22, Luke 18, Philippians 4:19 and Psalm 103:12
Read ahead: Psalm 19
Reflect
When you think back over your life, what specific moments remind you of God’s faithfulness and rescue?
How does seeing yourself as “righteous in God’s sight” because of His mercy (and not your performance) change the way you live today?
What current needs in your life might be God’s invitation to trust Him more deeply and participate in His work?
What current needs in your life might be God’s invitation to trust Him more deeply and participate in His work?
Psalm 103:12 reminds us that God removes our sins “as far as the east is from the west.” How does this truth free you to live more fully in His grace, like David did in 2 Samuel 22 (where he shares a song of praise correlating to Psalm 18)?
Philippians 4:19 and Luke 18 remind us that God provides for our needs and invites us to pray persistently. In what areas of your life do you need to trust His provision and keep bringing your requests before Him?
Respond
Write your own short “psalm of remembrance,” naming a few ways God has been faithful and turning them into a prayer of thanks.
Rejoice
This Week’s Songs
