Tuesday, 25th July 2023
Andrews Ampomah
TOPIC: YOUR TIMES ARE IN GOD'S HANDS
THEME SCRIPTURE: “My times are in your hand; rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors!” – Psalm 31:15
PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:
- What did the psalmist mean by "My times are in your hands?
- Was the psalmist overwhelmed by the enterprises of his enemies and persecuters?
David's life overflowed with numerous triumphs and remarkable exploits. However, it is equally marked by extensive persecution. The intensity of these persecutions is often overlooked, as he faced severe threats to his life, both before ascending the throne and during his latter reign in Israel. There are several instances where King Saul sought to kill David in Keilah (1 Samuel 23:13), in the wilderness of Maon (1 Samuel 23:25), and when they camped against each other in the cave at Engedi (1 Samuel 24). These persecutions occurred after the Prophet Samuel anointed him to be king, in replacement of Saul. Despite being destined for greatness and the fulfillment of God's word, David's existence was plagued by intense persecutions that aimed to thwart his destiny.
One of these perilous moments from Saul's persecution inspired David to pen down Psalm 31. The psalm opens with a resolute declaration of trust in God as his refuge and deliverer (Psalm 31:1).
In the midst of persecution, he was keenly aware that his safety resided solely in God's hands. Only God had the power to preserve his life and ensure the fulfillment of His promises. In our focus text, he prays: “My times are in your hand…” He here acknowledges that every aspect of his existence, from birth to death, is known to God. This profound consciousness affirms that God is aware of the courses of our lives and every moment we live until our last breath. These were undeniably trying times for David – a man anointed to be the future king of Israel. Yet he was driven by persecution to seek shelter in caves and in the wilderness. Despite the challenges, David's affirmation that his times were under God's control served as a resolute declaration of trust in God's Sovereignty and Providence.
He firmly believed that whatever God had spoken concerning him would not falter but inevitably come to pass.
Dearly beloved in Christ, we, like David are faced with several moments of trials that seek to end our lives. These challenges often appear as formidable threats, seeking to disrupt and endanger our lives. We encounter various persecutions that cast shadow over our very existence, testing our faith and resolve in Christ. The world, with all its complexities, has relentlessly attempted to shatter our dreams with continuous frustrations, one after another.
David's life serves as an inspiring example of someone who placed unwavering trust in the sovereignty and providence of God, living his life according to God's divine plan.
Regardless of whether we find ourselves in the darkest moments of life or not, the awareness that our times are in God's hands should offer us profound comfort and assurance. Let us find solace in singing the third stanza of Elisha Hoffman’s song, he notes: “What have I to dread, what have I to fear, leaning on the everlasting arms? I have blessed peace with my Lord so near, leaning on the everlasting arms, with the chorus “Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarms; leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms.” God bless you.
FURTHER READING – Psalm 31
Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so
QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:
- Do you believe that God can take care of you no matter what comes your way?
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, In you, O Lord, do I take refuge; You'll never let me be put to shame. In your righteousness will You deliver me! My times are in your hand, and in Christ Jesus. Amen.
1-Year Bible Reading Plan
2 Samuel 11; Jeremiah 15; Matthew 26
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