https://esv.literalword.com/?q=psalm+57
Observations from today’s readings and today’s S-WOD, Sunday, 2 February 2025:
Psalm 57:1 — Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge….
In the midst of trials and persecutions, do you take refuge in the LORD, trusting in His perfect sovereignty, love and faithfulness? Is your love, joy, peace, and gratitude unwavering because it is grounded upon the rock of Jesus Christ?
When incredible storms come, do you panic or rest in the providence of the Almighty? (Mark 4:38-41)
Psalm 57:2, 3 — I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me. He will send from heaven and save me; he will put to shame him who tramples on me. Selah God will send out his steadfast love and his faithfulness!
In your trials do you double-down on prayer, with confidence God is fulfilling His purpose for you with steadfast love and faithfulness?
Psalm 57:4-5 — My soul is in the midst of lions; I lie down amid fiery beasts— the children of man, whose teeth are spears and arrows, whose tongues are sharp swords. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!
In the midst of trials and persecutions is your primary prayer for relief or that God would be exalted through your circumstances? Is your immediate response to crisis to praise God?
Psalm 57:7 – I will sing and make melody!
In the midst of trials, praise God!
Psalm 57:9 — I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations.
What you say to others about Jesus, particularly when you are going through life challenges, reveals what you really think about Him.
Psalm 57:10 — For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds….
The secret to facing inevitable life crisis and overcoming fear, anxiety, envy, anger, etc., is to see everything within the context of God’s love and faithfulness. In Christ, it isn’t happening to you, it is happening for you, and if it isn’t working for you, it is working on you as His refiner’s fire. Trust and obey, with confidence, joy, and gratitude.
“Cross” Fit S-WOD (Spiritual Workout of the Day) – 2 February 2025: Today, when challenges arise, see them as God’s gift to you to glorify Him, be further conformed to Christlike character, and provide strength to others. See your circumstances through the reality of God’s perfect love and faithfulness. Remain in constant prayer and praise with thanksgiving.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18 — …give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Defenders Bible Reading Plan 