A great struggle between good and evil has endured throughout the generations since the Garden of Eden. Those who have placed their faith in God (righteous) are in opposition to those who have rejected him (wicked). David highlights the enmity the unbeliever has for God’s people when he says, “The wicked watches for the righteous and seeks to put him to death” (v32). Further, according to Apostle Paul, this conflict originates from the spiritual realm, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Eph 6:12). Despite the fact the wicked appear to flourish in the earth, David reminds us of God’s preserving power over his people.
Our troubles shall not consume us. Jesus taught that we will experience much trial and tribulation in his life (Jn 16:33). Though the wicked (and evil forces behind them in the heavenly realms) labor daily to destroy us, we are promised that God will not allow us to be overtaken by them. He will not forsake us to their hands, thus David declares of the righteous, “The Lord will not abandon him to his power or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial” (v33).
The plots of the unrighteous shall not endure. Though their schemes and plans can at times prosper a season, God will put them to an end in a moment, thus David shares his testimony, “I have seen the wicked, ruthless man, spreading himself like a green laurel tree. (36) But he passed away, and behold, he was no more; though I sought him, he could not be found” (v35-36). He reminds us that the living have hope, while the dead do not, David continues, “…for there is a future for the man of peace. (38) But transgressors shall be altogether destroyed; the future of the wicked shall be cut off” (v37-38).
Beloved of God, be encouraged. Though the storms of life can inflict a flurry of precipitation upon us, we have nothing to fear. We are invited to seek shelter in God as he is our refuge. He is our stronghold in times of trouble. Remember, God is in the saving business. He is exalted in granting mercy to his people (Isa 30:18). Let younger David be an encouragement to us, when he came face to face with a great and power enemy Goliath. Even in that very moment of trial David understood that victory was not granted by stones in his sling, nor was victory found in Israel massive army who cowered in fear of Goliath. Rather, it is God who triumphs over our enemies, for David says to Goliath, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. (46) This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands…” (1 Sam 17:45-46). God is our salvation in this life and in eternity!
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com