One who pursues intimacy with God, will bear the fruit of devotion and gratitude towards Him. David’s life exemplified this truth. 1 & 2 Samuel (historical books) records much of his life beginning from the time the great prophet Samuel was sent to anoint him as king of Israel, to his striving with king Saul, and his eventual conquering of Israel’s enemies (e.g., Philistines). In 2 Samuel 22, David offers a song of praise to glorify God for his delivering work in his life. This same hymn also appears here in Psalm 18 (though there are some minor differences). There are two primary characteristics of God he rejoices in that so greatly impacted his own life that we shall explore today.
God’s mercy covered all his struggles. The operative objective of mercy is meet a need for a person who cannot provide it nor earn it for themselves. In witnessing the calamitous destruction over Israel, Jeremiah not only recognized the need for God’s mercy (daily), but he understood that it was given without examination of our worthiness, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; (23) they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lam 3:22-23). God’s mercy preserves us through life’s trials because embedded in it is his power to deliver, as a result David expresses gratitude, “I love you, O Lord, my strength.”
Reflection: What does the word rejoice mean? It is a verb, which in part means to, “give joy to.” Joy grows in a heart for what we have affections for (what we delight in). For example, to grow a love for watching a NFL football team, I must spend my time (with consistency) following their season, players, and inter-workings. We witness the fruits of this process when such a team experiences a great victory, and then we “give our joy” and glorify them with praise (and shouts). Likewise, are we growing in godly appetites that will produce holy affections for the Lord? Remember, what we rejoice over is what we love.
God’s protection was a stabilizing force. David declares, “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my work, in whom I take refuge.” The watchful care of God over his life provided a secure place (like a high fortress) that David could always flee to for shelter and protection. God was his defense against his enemies, his “horn” of salvation.
Reflection: When we are in need of help, who do we run to? The key is this: what we love will determine what we place our hope and trust in. If it is in politicians and government, they become our saviors. If it is in material possessions, it becomes a fortress to which we run to. Caution: what does the Bible say about these things? They are all passing away. They do not offer lasting peace nor do they ultimately save (1 Jn 2:15-17). Though we prepare ourselves for life’s battles, Solomon observes that triumph comes from God himself, “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord” (Prv 21:31). The question we should daily ask ourselves is this: Who do I trust? What I place my hope in, that is also what I reserve joy in my heart to be expressed towards. Rejoicing in man-made things, and attributing peace and safety to things of this world is like foolishly casting pearls to swine.
As with David, God remains the Rock and Refuge for his chosen children (cf. Heb 13:8). Because of who he is and what he has done, he is worthy of our delight and praise which fans into flame our love for him.
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D
www.springoflivingwaters.com