Psalms 7-9
As we read Psalm 8, we can see David out in the field with his sheep, looking around him at God’s magnificent handiwork. “What is man that Thou art mindful of him? Yet Thou hast made him a little lower than God”(8:4-5).
David has a remarkable understanding of man’s place in God’s plan. “Thou dost make him to rule over the works of Thy hands.”(8:6). While many people of that era consider God to be running the earth as if men were puppets, David grasps the divine plan of man’s purpose. Dominion on the earth.
One of the verses was quoted by Jesus with a different twist. (Matthew 21:16) “From the mouths of infants and nursing babes, Thou hast established strength, because of the adversaries, to make the enemy and vengeful cease.”(8:2) Instead of the word “strength,” however, Jesus substitutes “praise.” So praise is the strength we have to stop the enemy in our lives.
There is a power in praise unto God which is beyond our understanding. When we praise God, our own strength arises. Yet there is more. When we praise God, the enemies flee from around us. They hate to hear that praise. It’s like salt on a wound.
You will continue to see David use that weapon of war. He praises God for being his stronghold in times of trouble. He praises Him for his handiwork. He praises Him for His mercy and forgiveness.
If we follow in David’s footsteps, our lives would be better off. We too would reap the fruit of a life filled with praise to God. Mercy, protection, and divine deliverance.
Acts 18
Paul gains reinforcements as he continues in eastern Europe. Aquila and Priscilla had been sent away from Rome, so they came to reside in Corinth. That’s where Paul met them and started ministering with them. This couple will continue to be helpful to Paul for many years. Since they are tent-makers, as he is, Paul lives with them for a season.
Even though there is some resistance, God speaks to Paul and tells him to stay in Corinth for a while. “For I have many people in this city,”says God. (V. 10). So Paul settles there for a year and a half, which is unusual for this man who is always on the move.
When the Roman official won’t get involved in persecuting Paul, the Jews publicly beat the leader of the synagogue. That’s when it’s time for Paul to leave.
So the gospel continues to be spread – now to Ephesus. These people want Paul to stay and instruct them, but he can’t at the moment. He plans to return, but must first go back to his region for reporting on his work.
Along the way, he also picks up a fellow worker, Apollos. This eloquent man is “mighty in scriptures,”(V. 24), but he doesn’t know about the baptism of the Holy Spirit. When Priscilla and Aquila share this aspect also, he is empowered to be even more of an evangelist.
The troops are gaining in number and in power. Look out, world, changes are coming!
| Word count: 484 |
