Friday, June 4, 2021

Seder 54: Psalm 25---Praying for Forgiveness, Seeking Wisdom

 In Psalm 25, an acrostic psalm associated with David, the psalmist seeks God in a time of trial, knowing that God is his only sure source of help (vv 1-2).  

Times of adversity lead to self-examination, and to the realization of our own limitations.  The psalmist thinks of his own mistakes and sins that have contributed to his problems, and he humbly asks God to (1) teach and guide him (vv 4-5); and (2) forgive his sins (vv 6-7). He understands God's merciful nature as revealed, for example, in Exod 34:6-7:  

"Remember your mercy, O LORD, and your steadfast love, for they have been from of old" (v 6).

He is confident that God will answer his prayer, because God does teach and forgive those who submit to him (vv 8-12).  This is consistent with the meaning of his name (v 11).  Those who fear God will be taught and blessed by God.  They'll be friends of God, as Abraham was (vv 12-14; see Isa 41:8). 

He confidently prays for his own deliverance, and for that of the whole people of Israel (vv 15-22).  

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Seder 47: Isaiah 56:1-8--Righteousness is More Important than Pedigree

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