Responsibility For Our Faith
BRD REFLECTION 2025
Revelation 11 and Psalm 132 (NIV)
(Magdalene Tan from Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Psalm 132 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
This is a prayer with the beneficiary being David and his descendants on the throne. It recalls deep Biblical ancestral significance in the phrase the Mighty One of Jacob, David’s covenant with God and God’s assurance to David and his descendants. David’s commitment is hard to match. There is lovely imagery in verses 6, 9,16 and best of all verse 18.
APPLY:
Reading this Psalm, I recall that, for the longest time, the character of David has often been an enigma to me – he is revered for many qualities but is also known for bouts of extreme proclivities in his life. From primary school bible classes, David was the shepherd boy, an admirable character of innocence, bravery and strength. Later on, as an adult, I was shocked by David’s actions – a see- saw of the human condition from repentance, contrition, recognition of personal failings and eventually acceptance of God’s grace.
I was very moved today as I read the verses, and I am reminded that regardless of how far he often departed from the standards set by God, David found his way back. God on His part was constant both in admonition, and also in His protection and provisions. David received the grace of God repeatedly.
As a Christian, I want to be mindful of my human condition – that horrible thing that pushes me so often into actions that would surely displease God. Thoughtless words, not being discerning and helpful, focusing on negatives instead of applauding the positives first, judging others as though I were a perfect person, the list goes on.
Two sentences in the hymn “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” come to my mind:
“Let thy grace, Lord, like a fetter, Bind my wand’ring heart to thee.” and
“Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, Prone to leave the God I love :”,
DO:
I will try to be mindful of the responsibility that my profession of faith demands. This needs constant refreshing from the Word and for my heart to reflect and improve, going forward each day.
PRAY:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the times You have blessed me with Your grace and compassion. In moments when I did not even think of You, Your mighty presence has never left me. With family, friends, and neighbours in the widest sense, keep me grounded in Your Word that I may be a good witness in everything I do, and when I am not, please haul me up. Thank you and Amen.
