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When in despair: Psalm 53 (Day 129)

Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.

Pray

Pray

Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.

Reflect

Daily reflection: Psalm 53

Ever feel despair at the state of the world and feel that, if only people knew God, things would be better? The psalmist makes a similar lament. 

Like in Psalm 50, which we looked at on Tuesday, God’s appearance in the psalm is to judge, and we’re in a similar position here. We might find this uncomfortable (and pictures of God as a judge are certainly less fashionable than they were, and the language of verse 5 feels particularly strong), but imagine this from the perspective of someone watching people who are being oppressed by others (verse 4). It sounds more like a cry for justice. 

This psalm, like many others, is fitting to the covenant relationship made between God and the nation of Israel. The rules of play are laid out through Deuteronomy, with the strong call to 'choose life', obeying the commands and receiving God's protection and love, and not to choose death: going against God's commands.  

It appears the psalmist is watching that happen and crying out for justice to be done. The psalm ends with a prayer for the prospering of God's people. As part of the church, in a new covenant relationship with God, what might there be to lament? And what might there be to pray for?

Pray

Pray

Lord, thank you that you alone remain true. When we despair at the state of the world, help us to call on you to change hearts.


This reflection was written by Helen Crawford, Bible Society's Digital Bible Experience Manager

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