Canonical Reading Plan for Jun 19, Psa 32--35

Today's readings are Psa 32-35. 

Ps 32 - Penitential (David praises God's forgiveness)
Ps 33 - Thanksgiving (David extols God's sovereignty)
Ps 34 - Thanksgiving (David blesses God's provision)
Ps 35 - Imprecatory  (David petitions God's vengeance)

The headings of the Psalms can be very helpful in understanding what's going on around them.

Notice a few things;

·         David is not the author of all the Psalms in the Book of Psalms

·         David is not hesitant to express his confusion, fear, and doubt, sometimes even his anger

·         Regardless of his feelings, David always (almost) ends with praise and exaltation of God, repenting, giving Him thanks and acknowledging his power and holiness. 

David's psalms are great templates and examples of prayer. I can't help but wonder how my prayers would compare to David's. Would they be as honest? Would they end up being as God-focused? Would they be as reverent and thankful, even in tough circumstances, as David's?

In Psa 35, we see how David handles what may be the most difficult time of his life. He calls out for help, for protection from his enemies, for vindication, for strength, for many things our hearts cry out for when we are hurting and afraid. 

Yet David is always careful to praise God and acknowledge His wisdom and power. David is dependent upon God's hand moving in his life and confesses his weakness without Him. 

David gives us a road map for navigating strife in our life. It's OK to be afraid, even mad. But our eyes and hearts should always turn to God, trusting in Him, worshiping Him and finding our peace in Him.