Saturday, June 4, 2005

Love and the Right Hand of God

I have called upon You, for You will hear me, O God;
  Incline Your ear to me, and hear my speech.
Show Your marvelous lovingkindness by Your right hand,
  O You who save those who trust in You
  From those who rise up against them.
(Psalm 17:6-7)
David was in a jam and he needed help — pretty quickly! So he cried out to the Lord, very fervently and with great intent, but also with great confidence that God would give close attention to him.

“Show Your marvelous lovingkindness by Your right hand.” He is calling for a very distinct display of God’s hesed, His steadfast loving and covenant mercy. “Do wonders for those who are the objects of your great mercy.”

“By Your right hand.” David is looking for a very practical display of God’s love demonstrated through His power.

The word for “trust” (“O You who save those who trust in You”) means to flee. As David’s enemies rose up against him, he was fleeing to the LORD for refuge — “ LORD, help!”

When the chips are down, you can run to the LORD and look to Him for refuge and help, and He will back you up and bring you out. He will demonstrate His great love and mercy in very practical ways, by the might of His right hand.

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