defender

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -68

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Psalm 68: Celebrating Our Triumphant God

Dear friend in Christ, as we open our hearts to Psalm 68, we’re invited into a vibrant song of praise penned by David. This psalm bursts with energy, painting God as the mighty Warrior, compassionate Father, and ultimate Savior. From a Christian perspective, it echoes the victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death, reminding us of His ascension and the gifts He pours out on His people (as Paul references in Ephesians 4:8). Let’s walk through this psalm, section by section, allowing its truths to warm our souls and draw us closer to the Lord. May it inspire you to rejoice in God’s unchanging character today.

God’s Triumphant Rise and Care for the Vulnerable (Verses 1-6)

The psalm opens with a powerful invocation: “May God arise, may his enemies be scattered; may his foes flee before him” (v. 1). Here, David calls upon God to act decisively against evil, likening the wicked to smoke blown away or wax melting in fire (v. 2). Yet, amid this judgment, the righteous are called to “be glad and rejoice before God” (v. 3), finding joy in His presence.

What a comforting picture! God isn’t distant—He rides on the clouds, worthy of our songs (v. 4). As Christians, we see this as a foreshadowing of Christ’s return in glory. But notice the tenderness: God is “a father to the fatherless, a defender of widows” (v. 5), placing the lonely in families and leading prisoners out with singing (v. 6). If you’re feeling isolated or burdened today, let this warm your heart—our Heavenly Father sees you and provides a spiritual family in the church. He turns rebellion’s barrenness into abundant life through Jesus.

God’s Faithful Provision in the Wilderness (Verses 7-10)

David recalls Israel’s history: “When you, God, went out before your people, when you marched through the wilderness” (v. 7), the earth shook, and heavens poured rain (v. 8). God refreshed His weary inheritance with showers and bounty, providing for the poor (vv. 9-10). This echoes the Exodus, where God led with a pillar of cloud and fire, sustaining His people. For us in Christ, it’s a reminder that Jesus is our Good Shepherd, guiding us through life’s deserts. When trials feel overwhelming, remember: God doesn’t just rescue; He refreshes and restores. Lean into His provision—He who gave manna in the wilderness gives us the Bread of Life (John 6:35).

Victory Proclaimed and Shared (Verses 11-14)

“The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng” (v. 11). Kings flee, and even at home, the spoils are divided (v. 12). Poetic imagery follows: doves with silver wings amid scattered kings like snow on Zalmon (vv. 13-14). This celebrates God’s conquests, where victory is so complete that even the resting share in it. In Christ, we proclaim the ultimate victory—the cross defeated sin, and the resurrection scattered death’s forces. What joy! Whether you’re in the fray or at rest, God’s triumph is yours to share. Let this encourage you to tell others of His goodness.

God’s Majestic Reign and Ascension (Verses 15-18)

Mount Bashan envies the mountain God chooses (vv. 15-16), but God’s chariots are countless as He comes from Sinai to His sanctuary (v. 17). “When you ascended on high, you took many captives; you received gifts from people, even from the rebellious” (v. 18).This verse is quoted in Ephesians 4:8 regarding Christ’s ascension, where He led captives (us from sin) and gave gifts to His church. How warming to know our Lord ascended victoriously, pouring out the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts! No matter your struggles, God’s reign is eternal—He dwells with us forever.

God Our Burden-Bearer and Savior (Verses 19-23)

“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens” (v. 19). He saves from death and crushes enemies (vv. 20-21), promising to bring foes low (vv. 22-23). In Jesus, this finds fulfillment—He bore our burdens on the cross, saving us from eternal death. If heaviness weighs on you, cast it on Him (1 Peter 5:7). Our God isn’t just powerful; He’s personal, daily sustaining us with grace.

The Joyful Procession of Worship (Verses 24-27)

David envisions a procession: singers, musicians, young women with timbrels, tribes like Benjamin and Judah praising in the assembly (vv. 24-27).This foreshadows the church’s worship, where all nations gather before the Lamb (Revelation 7:9). Join the parade! In your daily life, let praise flow—it’s a warm invitation to experience God’s presence collectively.

A Call for God’s Power and Global Submission (Verses 28-31)

“Summon your power, God; show us your strength” (v. 28). Kings bring gifts to the temple; beasts are rebuked, nations humbled (vv. 29-30). Egypt and Cush submit (v. 31). From a Christian lens, this points to the gospel’s spread—nations bowing to King Jesus. Pray for His kingdom to come, and find warmth in knowing His power works in you too, strengthening His people.

Universal Praise to the Awesome God (Verses 32-35)

“Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth” (v. 32), to Him who rides the heavens and thunders (v. 33). “Proclaim the power of God… You, God, are awesome in your sanctuary” (vv. 34-35).The psalm crescendos in praise, affirming God’s majesty over Israel and strength to His people. As believers, we echo this: Praise be to God! In Christ, we’ve tasted this power through the Spirit.

Beloved, Psalm 68 isn’t just ancient poetry—it’s a living declaration of God’s heart for you. Let it warm your devotion, stirring gratitude for Jesus, our ascended King. May you rise today, scattering doubts, rejoicing in His care.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, arise in our lives! Thank You for being our Defender, Provider, and Savior through Christ. Help us proclaim Your victory and live in Your strength. Amen.

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -35

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A Devotion on Psalm 35: God’s Justice and Faithfulness

Psalm 35 is a heartfelt cry from David, seeking God’s intervention against his enemies. It’s a powerful reminder that God is our defender, our righteous judge, and our ever-faithful protector. When life feels overwhelming or opposition surrounds us, this psalm points us to the unshakable character of God, who hears, sees, and acts on behalf of His people.

God Hears Our Cries

David begins with a plea: “Contend, Lord, with those who contend with me; fight against those who fight against me” (Psalm 35:1, NIV). This bold request reveals God’s attentiveness. He is not distant or indifferent; He hears the cries of His children. When you feel attacked—whether by people, circumstances, or spiritual battles—know that God is listening. His ear is tuned to your voice, and He invites you to pour out your heart to Him.

Take a moment to reflect: Are you bringing your struggles to God, trusting He hears you? His compassionate nature ensures no prayer goes unnoticed.

God Is Our Defender

David asks God to take up “shield and armor” and rise to his defense (Psalm 35:2-3). This imagery portrays God as a mighty warrior, standing between us and harm. When we face injustice or persecution, God’s strength becomes our shield. He doesn’t just protect us; He fights for us. His power is unmatched, and His commitment to His people is unwavering.

Consider a time when you felt defenseless. How does it encourage you to know that the Creator of the universe is your protector? Lean into His strength today, trusting He is fighting your battles.

God’s Justice Prevails

Throughout Psalm 35, David appeals to God’s justice: “May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame” (v. 4). He trusts God to set things right. God’s justice is perfect—He sees every wrong, every hidden motive, and every act of evil. Yet, He is also patient, offering grace even to those who oppose Him. This balance of justice and mercy is a hallmark of His character.

When you face unfair treatment, resist the urge to take matters into your own hands. Instead, entrust your cause to God, the righteous judge, who promises to make all things right in His time.

God’s Faithfulness Inspires Worship

David doesn’t just lament; he worships: “Then my soul will rejoice in the Lord and delight in his salvation” (v. 9). Even in distress, David anticipates God’s deliverance and responds with praise. This reflects God’s faithfulness—He never abandons His own. His promises are sure, and His love endures forever.

Pause to praise God for His faithfulness in your life. How has He shown up for you in the past? Let those memories fuel your trust and worship today.

Application

Psalm 35 invites us to trust in God’s attributes—His attentiveness, strength, justice, and faithfulness. When you feel overwhelmed, follow David’s example: cry out to God, trust Him to defend you, and rest in His righteous judgment. Then, let your heart overflow with praise, knowing that the God who fought for David is the same God fighting for you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being my defender and righteous judge. I trust You hear my cries and fight my battles. Help me rest in Your justice and faithfulness, and may my life overflow with praise for Your unfailing love. Amen.

Hymn Devotions Day 15 – A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

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DAY 15  – A MIGHTY FORTRESS

               This song has brought comfort to me many times. Whenever I go through trials, whenever I have been faced with persecution because of my faith in Christ, I lean on God to be both my unassailable place of refuge and my defender. Whenever, like the apostle Paul, I am so hard pressed that I despair even of life, my hope rests in the never failing strength and mercy of my God.

It is so easy to look at the evil in the world and despair. Often, it seems as if goodness is failing and the darkness is winning. It is then that God’s Word provides the ultimate comfort by revealing the final result – God wins. Good triumphs. Evil is banished. Our ancient enemy is forever defeated by the might of our Savior and God.

As a mere human, I am no match for the Prince of Darkness. As a son of the Living God, a prince of the Kingdom of Light, co-heir with Jesus Christ and temple of the Holy Spirit, I have nothing to fear. My life is hidden in Christ and all I have to do is call on His name. He is my refuge and my strength, an ever present help in times of danger.

 

            Lord, help me to remember that You are my place of safety, my refuge, my fortress. Help me not to become overwhelmed at the amount of evil in the world but to overcome it by shining Your light. Let me rest in the assurance that You will return, set up Your kingdom, and banish sin and evil forever. Lord, let me also run to You and You alone for safety.

A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR GOD – Martin Luther

A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing

Our helper He amid the flood, of mortal ills prevailing

For still our ancient foe, doth seek to work us woe

His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate

On earth is not His equal

 

Did we in our own strength abide, our striving would be losing

Were not the right man on our side, the man of God’s own choosing

Doth ask who that may be? Christ Jesus it is He

Lord Sabaoth His name, from age to age the same

And He must win the battle

 

And though this world with devil’s filled, should threaten to undo us

We will not fear for God hath willed, His truth to triumph through us

The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him

His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure

One little word shall fell him

 

That word above all earthly powers, no thanks to them abideth

The Spirit and the gifts are ours, through Him who with us sideth

Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also

The body they may kill, God’s truth abideth still

His kingdom is forever

Hymn Devotions Day 3 – O Worship The King

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DAY 3 O WORSHIP THE KING 

This majestic song lifts you up in praise to the One seated on the Everlasting throne. The use of adjectives such as shield, defender, friend, maker and redeemer tell us of God’s character.

Here is no aloof God, watching from way off in space. Here is a God intimately involved with His creation. This is, make no mistake, a hymn about the Creator and His creation. It was based on Psalm 104. In a day where evolution is held to be absolute truth, this hymn helps us to unashamedly sing out our belief in a personal Creator God.

The third stanza unapologetically states that God formed the world. The writer has in mind both the Genesis account of Moses and the book of Job, where God tells Job that He put boundaries on the waters.

God’s love and providence for His creation is evident throughout the song. It is because He cares and desires so deeply for us to have a relationship with Him, that we are able to sing of His glory and might.

God is our shield, an ever-present help in times of trouble. He defends us against the slanderous attacks of our adversary. He is our friend as well as our Lord, a mind-blowing concept is ever there was one. Most of all, He is our creator and our redeemer. He made us for Himself and redeemed us for Himself. All praise to the King of Kings, who is worthy of all glory and honor.

As you pray today, thank God for the ways He manifests Himself to you – a shield, defender, redeemer. He is not only your maker, but He will be your friend if you would yield your life to Him.

 

Thank you Lord, for creating us and the beautiful world we live in. We worship You, King of the Universe, and give you all glory and honor and praise.

 

O WORSHIP THE KING by Robert Grant

O worship the King, all glorious above

O gratefully sing God’s power and God’s love

Our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days

Pavilioned in splendor and girded with praise

O tell of His might, O sing of His grace

Whose robe is the light, whose canopy space

Whose chariots of wrath the deep thunderclouds form

      And dark is His path on the wings of the storm

      The earth with its store of wonders untold

      Almighty Thou power hath founded of old

      Hath established it fast by a changeless decree

      And round it has cast like a mantle, the sea

      Thy bountiful care, what tongue can recite

      It breathes in the air, it shines in the light

      It streams from the hills, it descends to the plains

      And sweetly distills in the dew and the rain

      Frail children of dust and feeble as frail

      In Thee do we trust, nor find Thee to fail

      Thy mercies, how tender, how firm to the end

      Our Maker, Defender, Redeemer and Friend