Today’s scripture: Psalm 18:31-36 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (David Zier):
In the Hebrew Bible, there are many references to war. In these passages, God girds with strength, God is training for war, and God’s salvation is the shield of protection. The words to Onward Christian Soldier very quickly passed through my mind, but I wanted to think about this message spiritually for myself. Spiritual Warfare is a term used often in the world, especially when it comes to good versus evil. But what about what happens within us? Isn’t there a kind of war that happens in us as we are spiritually transformed and we are maturing in Christ?
This reminds me of an ABBA song called “Me and I” from their Super Trouper album from 1980. Here are some of the words:
Sometimes when I’m mad
There’s a part of me that seems to be a little sad
Sometimes when I scream
There’s a voice in me that says, “You shouldn’t be so mean”
Oh no, oh no
Part of me is acting while the other stands beside
Yes, I am to myself what Jekyll must have been to Hyde
We’re like sun and rainy weather
Sometimes we’re a hit together
Me and I
Gloomy moods and inspiration
We’re a funny combination
Me and I
I don’t think I’m different or in any way unique
Think about yourself for a minute
And you’ll find the answer in it
Everyone’s a freak
Benny and Bjoern (the 2 males in ABBA who write the songs) did not speak or write in English, but these words are profound. I love how they remind me of what happens inside of me as I grow spiritually. I know what I ought to do, or what I ought to say, and even when I don’t, God nudges me. Ever feel like that freak at times? Even when I feel down on myself, I know that is not what God wants for me. It seems like God is helping me in my own battles.
God girds me with strength, God helps me in our daily walk and spiritual struggles, and God’s salvation allows me to live and walk freely in the path that God has laid out before me. So maybe some days I am like sun and rainy weather, others are gloomy and inspired, or mad and sad, or yelling and glad. I can be a funny combination. Maybe we are all of these things at the same time. But we can rest knowing that God is with us through all times to help us grow. If I am a freak, call me a freak for Jesus.
Reminds me of Paul in Romans 7:15:
I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.
Thought for the day: Think about yourself for a minute. What struggles are you working through right now?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.