justice

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -69

/ taethne / Leave a comment

Diving into Psalm 69: A Cry from the Depths, Answered in Christ

My friend, have you ever felt like you’re sinking in a sea of troubles, where the waves just keep crashing over you? That’s exactly where David finds himself in Psalm 69—a raw, heartfelt lament that pours out his soul to God. As we walk through this psalm together from a Christian perspective, we’ll see not just David’s pain, but a prophetic glimpse of our Savior Jesus Christ, who endured the ultimate suffering for us. This isn’t just ancient poetry; it’s a mirror for our own struggles and a reminder of God’s faithful rescue. Let’s unpack it section by section, letting the Holy Spirit speak to our hearts.

The Overwhelming Flood (Verses 1-4)

David starts with a desperate plea: “Save me, O God! For the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in deep mire, where there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and the flood sweeps over me.” Can you picture it? He’s not just tired—he’s exhausted from weeping, his throat parched, his eyes failing as he waits for God. Enemies hate him without cause, accusing him falsely and forcing him to repay what he didn’t steal. From a Christian viewpoint, this echoes Jesus’ words in John 15:25: “They hated me without a cause.” David’s innocent suffering foreshadows Christ’s betrayal and crucifixion. Friend, if you’re feeling swamped by unfair attacks or overwhelming circumstances today, know that Jesus has been there. He understands your cry. Turn to Him—He’s the solid rock when everything else feels like quicksand.

Honest Confession and Zeal for God (Verses 5-12)

David doesn’t hide his flaws: “O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you.” Yet even as he confesses, he prays that his troubles won’t shame those who hope in God. His zeal for God’s house consumes him, and the insults aimed at God fall on him. He weeps, fasts, and wears sackcloth, only to become a byword, mocked by drunkards at the city gate.This zeal? It’s quoted in John 2:17 about Jesus cleansing the temple: “Zeal for your house will consume me.” And Romans 15:3 applies verse 9 to Christ bearing our reproaches. What a comfort! Jesus didn’t just sympathize; He took on the mockery and isolation we deserve because of our sin. In your own life, when standing for what’s right leaves you feeling alone or ridiculed, remember: Your Savior wore that crown of thorns first. Let His passion ignite yours, drawing you closer to the Father.

A Plea for Mercy in the Midst of Despair (Verses 13-21)

Here, David shifts to earnest prayer: “But as for me, my prayer is to you, O Lord. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.” He begs for rescue from the mire, from enemies who hate him. Poignantly, he says, “They gave me poison for food, and for my thirst they gave me sour wine to drink.” Sound familiar? This points straight to the cross, where Jesus was offered sour wine (Matthew 27:34, 48; John 19:28-29). David’s betrayal by close friends (verse 8) mirrors Judas’ kiss. Oh, dear one, in your deepest hurts—when family turns away or friends disappoint—Jesus knows that sting intimately. Cry out to Him as David did. God’s timing might feel slow, but His steadfast love (that beautiful Hebrew word hesed) never fails. He’s drawing you out of the pit, just as He raised Christ from the grave.

The Hard Words of Judgment (Verses 22-28)

These verses are tough—David calls down curses on his enemies: “Let their table become a snare… Let their eyes be darkened… Pour out your indignation upon them.” He asks God to blot them from the book of life. As Christians, we wrestle with this imprecatory language. It’s not vengeful spite; it’s a cry for divine justice against those who oppose God and His people.In the New Testament, parts like verse 22-23 are applied to Judas and those who rejected Christ (Romans 11:9-10; Acts 1:20). Jesus Himself pronounced woes on the unrepentant. Yet, He also prayed, “Father, forgive them” from the cross. Friend, this reminds us: Vengeance belongs to the Lord (Romans 12:19). In our pain, we can entrust justice to Him, while extending grace as Christ did. If you’re harboring bitterness, lay it at the foot of the cross—He’ll handle the rest.

From Sorrow to Song (Verses 29-36)

David ends on a triumphant note: “But I am afflicted and in pain; let your salvation, O God, set me on high!” He vows to praise God’s name with a song, magnifying Him more than any sacrifice. The humble will see and be glad; God hears the needy. Heaven and earth will praise Him, for He will build up Zion and give inheritance to His servants’ offspring.What a turnaround! This foreshadows the resurrection joy after Christ’s suffering. In Hebrews 13:15, we’re called to offer a sacrifice of praise. No matter how low you feel today, lift your eyes—God is your deliverer. As Christians, we know the full story: Jesus rose victorious, and in Him, we have eternal inheritance. Let your heart sing, even in the storm.

My dear friend, Psalm 69 isn’t just David’s story or even just prophecy—it’s an invitation to trust the God who saves. Jesus fulfilled its depths so you could experience its heights. Whatever mire you’re in, call on Him. He’s near, He’s faithful, and He’s turning your lament into praise.

Let’s pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for Psalm 69, which shows us Your heart through David’s cries and Christ’s cross. Help us cling to You in our floods, confess our follies, and praise You in faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -58

/ taethne

A Devotion on Psalm 58: Understanding God’s Justice

Let’s turn our hearts to Psalm 58, a passage that invites us to reflect deeply on God’s righteous judgment in a world often marred by injustice. As we explore this psalm, envision a serene meadow at dawn, where the first rays of sunlight pierce the mist, illuminating the truth of God’s Word. This devotion will unpack the psalm’s meaning, structure, and application, offering clarity and encouragement for our faith.

Psalm 58 is a lament, penned by David, that confronts the reality of human injustice while affirming God’s ultimate authority as Judge. The psalm begins with a piercing question: “Do you rulers indeed speak justly? Do you judge people with equity?” (Psalm 58:1, NIV). David addresses those in power who distort justice, their decisions as crooked as a warped branch. He paints a vivid picture of their corruption, describing their hearts as deceitful and their actions as violent, straying “from the womb” (Psalm 58:3). The imagery is stark: the wicked are like venomous snakes, deaf to the charmer’s tune, unyielding in their rebellion (Psalm 58:4-5). This metaphor underscores their deliberate refusal to heed God’s truth, choosing instead a path of harm.

The psalm then shifts to a bold prayer for divine intervention. David pleads for God to “break the teeth in their mouths” and make the wicked “like water that flows away” (Psalm 58:6-7). These vivid images—a lion’s teeth shattered, water slipping through fingers—express a cry for God to dismantle the power of evildoers. While such language may feel intense, it reflects David’s raw trust in God’s ability to set things right. He envisions the wicked fading like grass under a scorching sun, their schemes dissolving before God’s might (Psalm 58:8-9).

The heart of Psalm 58 lies in its unwavering confidence in God’s justice. David concludes with a declaration: “The righteous will be glad when they are avenged… Then people will say, ‘Surely the righteous still are rewarded; surely there is a God who judges the earth’” (Psalm 58:10-11). This resolution points to a future where God’s righteousness shines like a beacon, assuring believers that no wrong escapes His notice. The psalm’s structure—moving from lament to imprecation to praise—mirrors the journey of faith: acknowledging pain, seeking God’s intervention, and resting in His sovereignty.

What does this mean for us? First, Psalm 58 reminds us that God sees every injustice. In a world where truth is often twisted, we can trust that God, the righteous Judge, weighs every heart with perfect fairness. Second, it encourages us to pray boldly, bringing our burdens to Him as David did. We learn that it is not a sin to pray for the destruction of our enemies at God’s hand and that we can ask God to thwart evil and bring His justice to bear. Finally, the psalm calls us to hope. Jesus, who endured the ultimate injustice on the cross, now reigns as our Advocate, ensuring that righteousness will prevail.

Prayer:

Lord, You are the God of justice, seeing all and judging rightly. When I face a world of brokenness, help me trust Your perfect plan. Teach me to pray with boldness and to rest in Your promise that righteousness will triumph. May my life reflect Your truth and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

As you reflect on Psalm 58, let its truth steady your heart. God’s justice, like a mighty river, flows unstoppably, and in His time, every wrong will be made right. Trust Him and let His righteousness guide your steps.

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -35

/ taethne

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.

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms -17

/ taethne

A Devotional on Psalm 17: A Cry for God’s Justice and Refuge

“Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.”
— Psalm 17:8 (NIV)

Imagine a storm-ravaged night, the wind howling like a chorus of restless spirits, trees bending low under the weight of nature’s fury. In the midst of this chaos, a small bird nestles beneath the sturdy wings of its mother, untouched by the tempest’s rage. This is the vivid imagery of Psalm 17:8, where David, pursued by enemies and weighed down by trials, pleads for God’s protection and favor. His prayer is not just a cry for help but a bold declaration of trust in the God who sees, knows, and shelters His own.

Psalm 17 is David’s heartfelt plea for justice, a prayer rising from a place of vulnerability yet grounded in unwavering faith. He begins with confidence: “Hear me, Lord, my plea is just; listen to my cry” (v. 1). David knows his heart is aligned with God’s will, and he appeals to the One who examines hearts with perfect clarity. Like a child running to a parent’s embrace, David seeks refuge in God’s righteousness, trusting that the Lord will deliver him from those who seek his harm.

The imagery of verse 8 is particularly striking: “Keep me as the apple of your eye.” The phrase evokes a tender, intimate connection—God’s gaze fixed on His beloved, as if David is the very center of His affection. The “apple of the eye” refers to the pupil, the most delicate and precious part of the body, fiercely guarded. To be the apple of God’s eye is to be cherished beyond measure, held close in His divine care. Then, David adds, “Hide me in the shadow of your wings,” conjuring the image of a mother eagle shielding her young from danger, her wings a fortress against the storm.

This imagery resonates deeply with the thoughts of great Christian thinkers. Augustine, in his Confessions, reflects on God’s protective love, writing, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living” (echoing Psalm 17:14). Augustine saw God as the ultimate shelter, a place of safety where the soul finds rest amidst life’s trials. Similarly, C.S. Lewis, in Letters to Malcolm, describes God’s care as a “severe mercy,” a love that protects but also refines, shaping us through trials into the image of Christ. David’s prayer in Psalm 17 embodies this trust in God’s dual role as both protector and purifier.

As we meditate on this psalm, consider the enemies David faced—not just physical foes but the spiritual battles of doubt, fear, and temptation. We, too, face such adversaries in our daily lives: the pressures of a world that pulls us from God, the whispers of anxiety, or the weight of injustice. Yet, like David, we can cry out to God, confident that He hears us. As Charles Spurgeon once wrote, “The Lord’s wings are broad enough to cover all His people, and His eye is keen enough to see every one of their needs.” Spurgeon’s words remind us that God’s protection is personal, His attention unwavering.

Picture yourself now, standing in a vast, open field, the winds of life swirling around you. Above, dark clouds loom, but you feel the gentle brush of feathers as God’s wings envelop you. You are seen, known, and cherished—the apple of His eye. No storm can uproot you, no enemy can prevail, for you are hidden in the shadow of the Almighty.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You as David did, seeking Your justice and refuge. You see my heart, my struggles, and my hopes. Keep me as the apple of Your eye, Lord, and hide me in the shadow of Your wings. When the storms of life rage, let me rest in Your unchanging love. Refine me, protect me, and lead me in Your everlasting way. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What “enemies” are you facing today that threaten your peace? How can you entrust them to God’s care?
  2. How does the image of being the “apple of God’s eye” or hidden under His wings encourage you in your current season?
  3. Reflect on a time when you felt God’s protection. How does that memory strengthen your faith now?

May Psalm 17 inspire you to run to God as your refuge, trusting that His love is both your shield and your strength. As John Calvin once said, “Though the world may rage, God’s elect are safe in His hand.” Rest in that truth today.

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms – 10

/ taethne

Devotional on Psalm 10: A Cry for Justice, A Call to Trust
Scripture Reading: Psalm 10 (ESV)

Why, Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? 2 In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, are caught in the schemes he devises. 3 He boasts about the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the Lord. 4 In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God. 5 His ways are always prosperous; your laws are rejected by[b] him; he sneers at all his enemies. 6 He says to himself, “Nothing will ever shake me.” He swears, “No one will ever do me harm.” 7 His mouth is full of lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue. 8 He lies in wait near the villages; from ambush he murders the innocent. His eyes watch in secret for his victims; like a lion in cover he lies in wait. He lies in wait to catch the helpless; he catches the helpless and drags them off in his net. His victims are crushed, they collapse; they fall under his strength.  He says to himself, “God will never notice; he covers his face and never sees.” 12 Arise, Lord! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless. 13 Why does the wicked man revile God? Why does he say to himself, “He won’t call me to account”? 14 But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless. Break the arm of the wicked man; call the evildoer to account for his wickedness that would not otherwise be found out. 16 The Lord is King for ever and ever; the nations will perish from his land. 17 You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, 18 defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.

Reflection: The Heart’s Cry in a Broken World
Psalm 10 is a raw, honest lament, a cry from the psalmist’s heart as he observes the rampant injustice in the world around him. The wicked prosper, the poor are oppressed, and it seems as though God is distant, silent, or even hidden. This psalm, attributed to David in the Septuagint tradition, resonates with the struggles of God’s people across centuries—whether in ancient Israel, the early church, or today. From a historical Christian perspective, Psalm 10 invites us to wrestle with the tension between God’s apparent absence and His unchanging faithfulness, a theme echoed by church fathers, reformers, and saints through the ages.
The psalm begins with a question that feels timeless: “Why, O Lord, do you stand far off?” (v. 1). Early Christian thinkers like Augustine saw in this cry a reflection of the human soul’s longing for God amid suffering. Augustine, in his Expositions on the Psalms, reminds us that God is never truly absent, even when He seems hidden. The psalmist’s bold questioning models a faith that dares to bring its doubts to God, trusting Him enough to voice frustration. This honesty is a hallmark of Christian devotion, from the desert fathers who prayed in solitude to the Puritans who sought God’s justice in a world of corruption.
As the psalm describes the arrogance of the wicked—those who “boast of the desires of their heart” (v. 3) and “say in their heart, ‘God has forgotten’” (v. 11)—we see a portrait of human pride that defies God’s authority. The early church faced such opposition in the Roman Empire, where Christians were persecuted by those who mocked their faith. Yet, leaders like Tertullian and Ignatius of Antioch found hope in passages like Psalm 10:12–15, where the psalmist pleads, “Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up your hand!” They believed that God sees the afflicted, hears their cries, and will ultimately bring justice. This conviction sustained martyrs and fueled the church’s perseverance.
The psalm’s closing assurance, “The Lord is king forever and ever” (v. 16), anchors its hope in God’s eternal reign. Medieval theologians like Thomas Aquinas emphasized God’s sovereignty as the foundation of Christian hope, even when earthly powers seem to triumph. The Reformers, such as John Calvin, echoed this, teaching that God’s delay in acting is not indifference but a call to trust His perfect timing. Calvin, in his commentary on the Psalms, noted that God’s “hiding” is a test of faith, refining believers to rely on His promises rather than their circumstances.


Application: Trusting God in the Waiting
Psalm 10 speaks to us today as it did to Christians centuries ago. When we see injustice—whether systemic oppression, personal betrayal, or the flourishing of the wicked—it’s natural to echo the psalmist’s cry: “Why, O Lord?” Yet, the historical Christian witness reminds us that God is not aloof. The cross of Christ, the ultimate answer to human suffering, reveals a God who enters our pain and triumphs over it. As the early church father Chrysostom wrote, Christ’s resurrection assures us that God’s justice will prevail, even if we must wait for it.
In your own life, where do you feel God seems distant? Bring your questions to Him, as the psalmist did, with bold faith. Trust that He sees the afflicted, hears your prayers, and will act in His perfect time. Like the saints of old, let Psalm 10 inspire you to persevere, knowing that “the Lord hears the desire of the afflicted” (v. 17) and will one day set all things right.


Prayer:
Heavenly Father, in a world marred by injustice, we often feel the weight of the psalmist’s cry: “Why do you hide yourself?” Yet, we trust that You are the King forever, seeing the oppressed and hearing our prayers. Strengthen our faith to wait on Your justice and to live as Your witnesses, proclaiming Your love and righteousness. Through Christ, our Savior, we pray. Amen.


For Further Reflection:
• Read Psalm 10 alongside Romans 8:18–25 to see how the New Testament fulfills the psalmist’s hope.
• Consider the writings of Augustine or Calvin on the Psalms for deeper insight into God’s sovereignty and human suffering.
• Reflect on a current injustice in your life or the world. How can you trust God’s timing while actively seeking His kingdom? 

A Sheep’s Journey Through Psalms – 7

/ taethne

Devotional on Psalm 7: A Cry for Justice and Refuge

Psalm 7, a psalm of David, is a heartfelt cry for divine justice and protection in the face of persecution. Traditionally understood as written during David’s flight from Saul or another enemy (possibly Cush, a Benjamite), this psalm resonates with Christians across centuries who have faced trials, slander, or injustice. From a historical Christian perspective, Psalm 7 offers timeless truths about God’s righteousness, human integrity, and the hope of divine deliverance, themes that have inspired believers from the early church to the Reformation and beyond.


Seeking Refuge in God (Psalm 7:1-2)
David begins, “O Lord my God, in you do I take refuge; save me from all my pursuers and deliver me.” This opening plea echoes the heart of Christian trust in God as the ultimate protector. Early church fathers like Augustine saw in David’s cry a foreshadowing of Christ’s reliance on the Father during His earthly trials. Augustine wrote that believers, like David, must flee to God as their stronghold, trusting Him amid life’s storms. When we face false accusations or overwhelming opposition, Psalm 7 reminds us to turn to God, who is both our shield and our advocate.


Reflection: Where do you seek refuge when life feels unjust? Take a moment to surrender your burdens to God, trusting Him as your fortress.


A Plea for Righteous Judgment (Psalm 7:3-9)
David boldly appeals to God’s justice, declaring his innocence and inviting divine scrutiny: “If I have done this, if there is wrong in my hands… let the enemy pursue my soul and overtake it.” This confidence in personal integrity was not arrogance but a deep trust in God’s righteous judgment. Christian thinkers like John Calvin emphasized that David’s plea reflects a heart purified by faith, not perfection. Calvin noted that Christians, justified by Christ’s righteousness, can approach God’s throne with confidence, not in their own merit but in Christ’s redemptive work.


David’s call for God to “judge the peoples” and “establish the righteous” also points to the eschatological hope central to Christian theology. The early church, facing Roman persecution, found comfort in this assurance that God would one day judge all nations with equity. As believers, we are reminded that God sees every heart and will right every wrong in His perfect time.


Reflection: Are you trusting God to judge justly in your circumstances? Pray for a heart aligned with His truth and justice.


God as Righteous Judge and Defender (Psalm 7:10-13)
David declares, “My shield is with God, who saves the upright in heart. God is a righteous judge.” This imagery of God as both shield and judge would have resonated deeply with Christians like the martyrs of the early church, who faced death for their faith. Tertullian, a second-century Christian, wrote that God’s justice is both a terror to the wicked and a comfort to the faithful. The psalm’s vivid description of God preparing His “weapons of war” against the unrepentant underscores His holy intolerance of evil, a theme echoed in Revelation’s depiction of Christ as the victorious judge.


Yet, for believers, God’s justice is tempered with mercy. The medieval theologian Thomas Aquinas reflected on Psalm 7, noting that God’s judgment is not only punitive but redemptive, calling sinners to repentance before it is too late. This balance of justice and mercy points us to the cross, where Christ bore God’s judgment to offer us salvation.


Reflection: How does God’s dual role as judge and defender shape your view of Him? Thank Him for His mercy that invites repentance.


The Self-Destruction of Evil (Psalm 7:14-16)
David observes that the wicked “conceive evil” and “fall into the pit that they have made.” This principle of divine retribution—where evil recoils on itself—was a source of hope for Christians like Martin Luther, who faced opposition during the Reformation. Luther saw in Psalm 7 a reminder that God’s justice prevails, even when human schemes seem triumphant. The apostle Paul echoed this in Galatians 6:7, “Whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” For believers, this is a call to trust God’s providence rather than seek vengeance ourselves.


Reflection: Are you tempted to take justice into your own hands? Entrust your cause to God, who works all things for His glory.


A Song of Praise (Psalm 7:17)
The psalm concludes with David’s vow: “I will give to the Lord the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the Lord, the Most High.” This shift from lament to worship models the Christian response to trials. Historical figures like the Puritans, who endured persecution, often turned to psalms like this to fuel their worship. They saw praise as an act of faith, trusting God’s character even in suffering. Today, we join this ancient chorus, praising God for His unchanging righteousness and sovereignty.


Reflection: How can you cultivate a heart of praise, even in hardship? Offer a prayer or song of thanksgiving for God’s faithful justice.


Application for Today
Psalm 7 invites us to trust God as our refuge and righteous judge, especially when life feels unfair. From the early church’s martyrs to Reformation saints, Christians have clung to this psalm’s assurance that God sees, judges, and delivers. Let David’s example inspire you to examine your heart, trust God’s justice, and praise Him for His faithfulness. As you face trials, remember the words of Charles Spurgeon: “God is too good to be unkind and too wise to be mistaken. When we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart.”


Prayer
O Lord, our refuge and righteous judge, we come to You amid life’s injustices. Search our hearts, align us with Your truth, and deliver us from evil. Help us trust Your perfect justice and sing Your praise, knowing You are our shield and salvation. Through Christ, our righteous advocate, we pray. Amen.