Because the poor are plundered and the needy groan,
I will now arise,” says the Lord.
I will protect them from those who malign them.
You, Lord, will keep the needy safe
and will protect us forever from the wicked.
and will protect us forever from the wicked.
As I read this passage the other morning, I thought about who I seek to align myself with. Is it of those with means, status, power?
Here in the Psalm it says that it is the poor, the plundered and the needy for whom the Lord will rise. It is the needy the Lord will keep safe and protect.
Here in the Psalm it says that it is the poor, the plundered and the needy for whom the Lord will rise. It is the needy the Lord will keep safe and protect.
If this is the demographic for whom God says He will rise, would it not BEST behoove me to align myself in keeping with this?
Matthew 5 tells us it is the poor in spirit,
Matthew 5 tells us it is the poor in spirit,
those who mourn,
the meek,
those hungering and thirsting for righteousness,
the merciful,
pure in heart,
peacemakers,
those who are persecuted.... who are blessed!
Essentially all of humanity is poor, plundered and need, really. It just looks different for each person.
Essentially all of humanity is poor, plundered and need, really. It just looks different for each person.
There are those who are poor financially and by lack of resources, yes, but there are also the poor in character; poor in spiritual health, poor relationally--a scarcity of intimate, human connection.
There are those plundered of acceptance not just of their stuff, plundered emotionally not just physically.
There are needs of every kind amidst the breadth of humanity.
There are needs of every kind amidst the breadth of humanity.
It is easiest to see the physical, material needs of others, but what of the spiritual, emotional, mental, and relational needs?
Am I willing to see these in the humanity around me and then not just see it but draw near to it because THIS is what draws God near. And do I really want to be nearer the heart and presence of God?
Am I willing to see these in the humanity around me and then not just see it but draw near to it because THIS is what draws God near. And do I really want to be nearer the heart and presence of God?
Oh that my felt comfort, safety and provision would not keep me from drawing close to the poverty and need in others' lives.
Thank you, God, that you come near to me in MY poverty and lack. There truly is none like you.
Thank you, God, that you come near to me in MY poverty and lack. There truly is none like you.
