Singing Psalms

2 Samuel chapters 3 and 4 begin with a reminder that things were still very difficult for David as a long war broke out between those who were loyal to David and those who were loyal to the deceased King Saul.

At this point, the chronological reading plan inserts the following psalms of David, revealing the heart of a man who, while enduring confusing trials, serious opposition, and war, was never in doubt about God's loving presence in his life. Psalm 121, Psalm 123-125, Psalm 128-130, Psalm 6, Psalm 8-10, Psalm 14, Psalm 16, Psalm 19, Psalm 21 are all worthy of a devotional read, but I want to highlight the eighth and ninth Psalms.

Here are just two of the beautiful reminders that David so eloquently recorded to help us remember exactly how great our God is.

Psalm 8

1 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them[e] with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!

Psalm 9

1 I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done.
2 I will be filled with joy because of you.
I will sing praises to your name, O Most High...
7 But the Lord reigns forever,
executing judgment from his throne.
8 He will judge the world with justice
and rule the nations with fairness.
9 The Lord is a shelter for the oppressed,
a refuge in times of trouble.
10 Those who know your name trust in you,
for you, O Lord, do not abandon those who search for you.
11 Sing praises to the Lord who reigns in Jerusalem.
Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds...

Father, your greatness and your goodness are affirmed by your love and mercy. Thank you for reminding us through your Word that we can always trust your perfect plan. You are Almighty Lord and I praise you. In Jesus' Name. Amen.