Psalm 4

“Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; have mercy on me, and hear my prayer. How long, O you sons of men, will you turn my glory to shame?  How long will you love worthlessness and seek falsehood?  (Selah)” Psalm 4:1-2 (NKJV)

It has never been easy to live faithfully in the world. Never, ever. As far back as the book of Genesis, people of unbelief & half-hearted devotion toward God have been at war against people with whole-hearted faithfulness. Cain killed his brother Abel out of envy because God favored Abel’s devotion. So why would we be surprised when a modern-day college professor, politician, or filmmaker would seek to destroy the faith of Christians? While unrighteous men have always sought to tarnish the “glory” of God’s children, the Lord has always been inclined to hear the prayers of His people. God delivers us, and He “re-polishes” our glory through redemption.  

King David may not have written the music to “The Safety of The Faithful” in Psalm 4, but he certainly lived out the theology it communicates! David had survived the pursuit of Saul. God’s faithfulness to His Word to David grew David’s faith to the extent that David understood this…while we do not know what the future holds, we place our confidence in The One who holds the future. In that knowledge, there is a peace that calms us, even in the midst of great conflict.  

“But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly; the Lord will hear when I call to Him. Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.  (Selah)” Psalm 4:3-4 (NKJV)

It is possible to be angry and indignant about injustice and not to sin. The wise and faithful know not to be driven by the flesh but rather to seek the Lord in how to respond. Also, God’s favor cannot be bought nor coerced through hasty repentance, which only turns back to worldliness once the difficulty subsides. God knows the differences between anxious “turning from sin” and true repentance. We may pray the Aaronic blessing (“Lift up Your countenance upon us” Numbers 6:22-27) over people, but only those judged by God as righteous may receive the blessing.

“Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord. There are many who say, ‘Who will show us any good?’ Lord, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us.”  Psalm 4:5-6 (NKJV)

When we meditate on God’s Word and His past faithfulness, we find joy. Literally, the peace which passes understanding.  (Philippians 4:6-7)

“You have put gladness in my heart, more than in the season that their grain and wine increased. I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:7-8 (NKJV)