Cover to Cover
Reading: Psalms 29-34
Focus: Psalm 32
The Christian life isn’t always like a bouquet of red roses, in fact, it more like a field of wild roses. Though full of beauty in full bloom, they are not without the thorns removed by the florist putting together a bouquet. Yes, this life is full of beauty, joy, and hope. On the other hand, like wild roses, unless one comes and removes the thorns, it is prickly, pointed and difficult to grasp at times. Yet, we have a hope that Jesus will touch our lives, taking us from the field of wild roses, removing the thorns from our side and presenting us as a full, rich, and beautiful bouquet of blood red roses to God the Father, acceptable and pleasing in His sight.
This psalm (Psalm 32) is a reflective psalm of the Christian life. It begins with the blessing of the righteous, they who are blessed—that is, filled with joy—for their sins are not counted against them and they are considered forgiven and pure. However, this opening is reflected by the reality that forgiveness comes through confession and repentance (vv. 3-5). The psalmist then continues to declare that God is the One to whom the godly may call upon for protection and deliverance. With the declaration of God’s faithfulness, the psalmist sets out to exhort those who would listen to him, encouraging them to follow God’s way, not to be like animals without understanding or the distressed wicked, for God will be with the one who trusts in Him. Therefore, all that trust in the faithful God, sing with the psalmist, “Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!” Why? Because our God is a faithful God, worthy of our praise.
The Christian who puts their trust in God, who confesses and repents of their sin, can be assured that God stands with them. Though life may be hard and difficult at times, He does not forget their situation and watches over them, not allowing them more than they can handle. Those who put their trust in Him will not be left in the dark for God’s unfailing love surrounds them. As such, the righteous can stand and rejoice in Him. Amen!
Next Reading: Psalms 35-38