Psalm 31
July 5, 2026 Father, as we celebrate the 250th birthday of our nation, we here in our little community of believers are grateful for the abundant provision for wellbeing. By most of the world’s standards we are filthy rich, safe in our homes and neighborhoods, and are able to participate in our system of government. May we not take this for granted. Make us responsible, thankful, and generous people.
Nevertheless, our secure lives in America do not shield us from illness, broken relationships, loss of income, perhaps depression or mental disabilities. In our distress we look to you and take the long view of your care and comfort. But none of us face the horror and agony of the Nigerian Christians who suffer grievous persecution at the hands of Fulani militants. And we know none of the terror David felt as he was pursued by his enemies.
In this Psalm we see the nature of David’s faith and trust in you: You are his rock and fortress and in his cries he appeals to the preservation of your name. He knows you see his affliction. He commits his spirit into your hands, believing you will hold him forever no matter the earthly distress that over comes him, for your love is steadfast.
And we must consider his absolute brokenness. He pours out his heart to you in his distress, his soul and body are wasted in grief, his life is spent with sorrow and his years with sighing. He hears the whispers of many; there is terror on every side; enemies plot to take his life. Little do we know of calamities like this. But in all this David says
But I trust in you, O Lord;
I say, “You are my God.”
15 My times are in your hand;
19Oh, how abundant is your goodness,
which you have stored up for those who fear you
and worked for those who take refuge in you,
So, against the day when we will face unbearable trials, we say with David:
24Be strong, and let your heart take courage,
all you who wait for the Lord!
With the Apostle Peter we say: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” Surely our times are in your hands as we await our inheritance sealed by your Holy Spirit, the resurrection to new life, when all things in heaven and on earth will be united in Christ.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray.
AMEN