Psalms 83
Outline
1-8 | God urged to act on behalf of His people
9-12 | Remembering past victories
13-18 | God will be exalted in the victory over enemies
Reflections
When confronted with a difficult situation, we should take the example of the Israelite people and urge God to fight our battles for us. Of course we have to keep in mind the words of Peter when it comes to persecution and trials.
1 Peter 4:12-19 NASB Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. 14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 AND IF IT IS WITH DIFFICULTY THAT THE RIGHTEOUS IS SAVED, WHAT WILL BECOME OF THE GODLESS MAN AND THE SINNER? 19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.
Lord God, as in the days of old, we pray that You will defend Your people so that Your name will be exalted. Lord we also pray that You will ease the suffering of those who are persecuted even though Your church is strengthened when ever it goes through times of persecution and suffering due to Jesus. We also pray that Your Spirit will enable to express Your love to those who are the source of our suffering and persecution so that they might have to opportunity to repent and seek Your face and live. May Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Psalms_083_RL_GodIsUrgedToConfrontIsraelsEnemies.pdf
