Sing And Make Melody
BRD REFLECTIONS:
1 Samuel 18:1-30, 19:1-24 and Psalm 57 (NIV)
(Julian Lim, Precept Facilitator)
READ:
The following verses caught my attention:
“… the Lord was with him…” (1 Samuel 18:12,14) –
“… the Spirit of God came upon…” (1 Samuel 19:20)
“I will sing and make melody!” (Psalm 57:7)
OBSERVE:
1 Samuel describes a complex relationship between David and Saul. Saul’s children loved David so much that they helped him escape from their father. Saul however had hatred and jealousy towards David. He could not accept David’s success against the Philistines and his popularity with Israel.
He plotted to kill David but failed in every attempt. He realised the Lord was with David and God had departed from him.
At Ramah the Spirit of God was present to protect David. David declared in Psalm 57 that even when his enemy set a trap to ensnare him, they would fall into it themselves (v6-7). That was how much faith he had in God. God indeed sent out His steadfast love and His faithfulness upon David (v3,10).
APPLY:
David’s life was always in danger and he was never able to feel safe. Psalm 57 reveals how only God kept him safe. His cry for mercy was heard and he fully believed God would fulfil his purpose for him (v1-3).
There are fearful and challenging moments in my own journey too. When I do not know how to respond and become afraid, I will turn to my faithful and all-knowing God for refuge. I sing songs of praises and, like David, make melody and give thanks to God (v9). Listening to worship songs has become a routine on my morning walks. Lyrics like “He knows my name, He knows my every thought, He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call” often minister to me when my spirit gets low; they lift me up and I become encouraged.
DO:
I will:
- Pray each day giving thanks for His providence.
- Pray for a clear mind, a spirit of wisdom and a revelation of God’s truth when studying and facilitating PUP Bible study sessions.
- Continue attending Wesley Wednesday prayer sessions.
PRAY:
Loving God, help me to trust in Your unfailing love and always sing praises to Your Name and exalt You. Discipline me Lord to pray without ceasing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
