The olive tree is mentioned frequently throughout scripture. These trees represent peace, prosperity and longevity. Apparently, they have deep roots and can blossom incredibly well in desert conditions. They are able to withstand harsh storms and can flourish for thousands of years. Even if fire destroys the leaves, its roots remain fixed, working to help it grow again. It is quite resilient!
This Psalm is David's contemplation over the actions of an enemy informant who revealed David's whereabouts to Saul. Identifying himself as an olive tree, he confirms his unwavering trust in the Lord despite current circumstances. After comparing himself to this vigorous tree, he tells us that in order to enjoy similar strength that is almost indestructible, and to thrive, not just survive in this life, there are three crucial things we need to do: always trust in God's unfailing love; praise Him forever because of what He has done; and trust in His name in the presence of His faithful people.
We can rest fully in the certainty of God's love for us. His perfect, unchanging love will never fail. There is no need to ever doubt His loyalty to us. His love is grounded in His constant character, covering past, present and future. It is unending and enduring. Knowing the security of such unchanging love surrounding us, gives us assurance and comfort in the face of difficulty.
Secondly, David tells us to praise God forever because of what He has done. This is not just referencing past evidences of God's goodness to us, but the Psalmist is expressing this praise, declaring his joy and gratitude to the Lord, in advance of seeing the victory, knowing that God will intervene on his behalf. David's enemy was still a threat, but with confidence, he proclaimed with faith, that God had provided and he continued to lift his voice in worship. David understood that God is good, and always worthy of our praise. We praise the Lord for His character, even in difficult circumstances.
We are reminded of Philippians 4:6 as Paul encourages us to always pray with thanksgiving, and David's words in Psalm 34:1, to bless the Lord at all times, with praise continually on our lips. Praise really is the gateway to seeing the movement of God in our lives. "Enter His gates with thanksgiving; go into His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the LORD is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and His faithfulness continues to each generation." (Psalm 100:4-5)
Lastly, David instructs us to trust in God's good name in the presence of His faithful people. We are never strengthened by trusting in our own provision, but only when trusting in the name that is above all names. The Psalmist echoed this in Psalm 20:7, "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God."
Three steps to victory in any situation: acknowledging and resting in God's unfailing love, praising the Lord for who He is and what He has done and trusting in God's name alone to provide. Although counter-intuitive to our own nature, David knew his own efforts would accomplish nothing against his enemy. Victory comes when we renounce any of our merits, including all confidence in our own strength, and professing instead dependence on the character and faithfulness of God.
We can triumphantly be overcomers against all odds when our trust is in the Lord.
No comments:
Post a Comment