Transcript

Podcast Introduction

In our reading today Psalms 69-71. I’m calling today’s episode “Stand Up.”

Comments on Psalm 69

This is a psalm which is especially applicable to today, and will become even more so as we approach the Last Days.

David began this psalm asking God to save him, and he writes about how utterly miserable he feels: "I am tired of crying. My throat is hoarse. My eyes are exhausted with waiting for my God."

In verse 4 he reveals the reason for his misery: "More numerous than the hairs on my head are those who hate me for no reason. My treacherous enemies, those who would destroy me, are countless. Must I now give back what I didn’t steal in the first place?"

Beloved, David is being attacked without cause. Does that sound familiar? You thought cancel culture was a new phenomenon? 

Why do they hate him?

v7: I am insulted because of you.

v9: Because passion for your house has consumed me, the insults of those who insult you have fallen on me!

They hated David because David loves the Lord, because he lives his life for God.

And as if it isn't bad enough that strangers hate him, even his brothers have rejected him. v8: I have become a stranger to my own brothers, an immigrant to my mother’s children.

I've heard so many stories of families being divided over conflicting beliefs, and you probably have too.

But just as David was committed to the Lord, we must also be. When we are attacked, we should cry to God for his protection. vv17-18: Don’t hide your face from me, your servant, because I’m in deep trouble. Answer me quickly! Come close to me! Redeem me! Save me because of my enemies!

And David did something that might surprise you. vv30: I will praise God’s name with song; I will magnify him with thanks...

David knew that this kind of hatred was not unique to him. He encouraged others who are hated without cause: Let the afflicted see it and be glad! You who seek God—let your hearts beat strong again because the LORD listens to the needy...

Jesus said in Matthew 10:11-12:  “Happy are you when people insult you and harass you and speak all kinds of bad and false things about you, all because of me. 12Be full of joy and be glad, because you have a great reward in heaven. In the same way, people harassed the prophets who came before you.

Don't be afraid of cancel culture, beloved. Courageously proclaim the Good News. Stand before men, kneel before God.

Design: Steve Webb | Photo: Jakob Owens on Unsplash

Today's Bible Translation

Bible translation used in today's episode: Ch. 69 CEB; Ch. 70 NKJV; Ch. 71 GNT

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Steve Webb 0:00Families being divided over conflicting beliefs

Steve Webb 0:11Well, hello there.