In Psalm 9 is a song of lamentation and appeal to God for vindication authored by David that begins with praise. In the first section (v1-12), David offers thanksgiving for God’s work of righteousness not only in his own life, but towards those who trust in him. He believed this truth: God is Judge over wickedness as sovereign ruler over all. Our devotional today will focus on exploring the meaning of the “wonderful deeds” of God that David intends to recount in this hymn.
God of all hope. David places importance on remembering the wonders of God’s past works, thus he says, “…I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.” I like manner, when God delivered Israel from Egypt they were exhorted by Moses to never forget what they experienced, “Remember this day in which you came out from Egypt, out of the house of slavery, for by a strong hand the Lord brought out from this place…” (Ex 13:3). How does reflecting continually on what God has done in our past helpful for our present? How can we draw strength from the well of joy that overflows into praise from ours and others testimony of God? Recounting his works in our lives not only steady’s our faith in present day afflictions, but also invigorates our confidence in the character of God for our future hope. We are encouraged that he is still the same God that was present providentially in our past, abides with us in our present and has prepared our future. He did not abandon you then, and will not forsake you now. You belong to him and he cannot deny himself. He is faithful (cf. 2 Tim 2:13).
Often as believers we have very short memories of who God is when trouble comes our way. We are quickly overcome with spiritual ADHD and lose focus on Christ in the midst of life’s storms. It is important to remember our testimony of God so we don’t have a “O ye of little faith” moment (cf. Mt 14:22-33). Our God never changes, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb 13:8). Because of Jesus, the Father’s mind is unchanged about you and I, even when we are unfaithful.
Praises to his name. Another benefit of meditating on what God has already done fans into flame a spirit of worship within us. Though we can be beat down by life, finding ourselves in circumstances that bewilder and grieve us…….we then remember that God is still faithful and just. We remember he is always with us. Though we suffer chains of affliction in deteriorating bodies, though we are wounded by the rejection from loved ones……..though we suffer in the works of the gospel mission……….we remember God. He is awesome and glorious. His love for us is steadfast and eternal. We become like David, who reflects on the goodness of God which led him to a heart of praise as he sings, “I will be glad and exult in you; I will sing praise to you name, O Most High.” Amen.
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D
www.springoflivingwaters.com