RPG Adults
MINGLED SORROW AND STRONG RESOLVE
THURSDAY, JUNE 6
Psalm 129:1-8
1 Corinthians 4:12-16
“… My grace is
sufficient for thee …”
MINGLED SORROW AND STRONG RESOLVE
This Psalm is a hymn of mingled sorrow and strong resolve. Though sorely smitten, the afflicted is of strong heart. He scorns to yield in the least to the enemy.
1. The poet sings the trials of Israel (vv.1-3)
2. The interposition of the Lord (v.4)
3. The unblessed condition of Israel’s foes (vv.5-8)
It is a rustic song, full of allusions to husbandry. It reminds us of the book of Ruth and the book of Amos.
Explanation:
“The plowers plowed upon my back.” The scourgers tore the flesh as ploughmen furrow a field. The people were maltreated like a criminal given to the lictors with cruel whips. The back of the nation was scored and furrowed by oppressors.
See how godly men are roughly ploughed by their adversaries, and yet a harvest comes of it which endures and produces blessing; while the ungodly, though they flourish for a while and enjoy a complete immunity, dwelling, as they think, quite above the reach of harm, are found in a short time to have gone their way and to have left no trace behind. Father, number me with Thy saints. Let me share their grief if I may also partake of their glory.
(Spurgeon)
THOUGHT: (Read Psalm 129:4.)
PRAYER: (Use Psalm 129:5.)