When you are disturbed, do not sin; ponder it on your beds, and be silent.
—Ps. 4:3-4
Being set apart for God is one of the more phenomenal truths found in the scriptures. It's not just (and not even always) an honor. As often as not, it's an awesome (read: awe-ful) responsibility. Think of Noah and the ark, Jacob wrestling God, Israel in Egyptian bondage, Paul in prison, Stephen being stoned, and Christ on the cross.
Yes, we all have our own cross to bear, though they're seldom delivered in such biblical proportions as what we find in, well, the Bible. But with this cross comes blessing: the ear of God, and the wisdom of the Spirit. But why does the seemingly unrelated Psalm 4:4 follow immediately after verse 3? Because, I think, it is a mark of people of faith to ponder what disturbs them and to find grace in anger, pain, or even persecution. The silence spoken of couldn't possibly be silence before God, for it is God with whom we share what we ponder. Because I bare my soul to God, I know when to speak before humans and when to be silent; when to move on, and when to respond.
Yes, we all have our own cross to bear, though they're seldom delivered in such biblical proportions as what we find in, well, the Bible. But with this cross comes blessing: the ear of God, and the wisdom of the Spirit. But why does the seemingly unrelated Psalm 4:4 follow immediately after verse 3? Because, I think, it is a mark of people of faith to ponder what disturbs them and to find grace in anger, pain, or even persecution. The silence spoken of couldn't possibly be silence before God, for it is God with whom we share what we ponder. Because I bare my soul to God, I know when to speak before humans and when to be silent; when to move on, and when to respond.
Thank you for the faith you have given me, O God. But be with me when that faith brings challenges. Grant me patience to ponder faith's lessons, and wisdom to know when to speak of them aloud, and when to hold my tongue; in Jesus' Name, who taught me to pray: Our Father...
Crossposted to Psalm Today.
