Overview:
(NET) The psalmist expresses his intense desire to be in God’s presence and confidently affirms that God will judge his enemies.Structure:
(EBC)
A. Longing for the Lord (v. 1)
B. Vision of God’s Beneficence (vv. 2–3)
C. In Praise of the Lord (vv. 4–5)
A′. Longing for the Lord (vv. 6–8)
B′. Vision of God’s Judgment (vv. 9–10)
C′. In Praise of the Lord (v. 11)
Observations:
"O God, you are my God!" "I long for you," "thirsts for you," "yearns for you," "think about you during the nightimes hours," and "my soul pursues you," v.1-2, 6-8, David described how he longed for God.
What caused David to have this strong desire for God?
(1) "In a dry and parched land where there is no water..." v.1.
(NET) Heb “faint” or “weary.” This may picture the land as “faint” or “weary,” or it may allude to the effect this dry desert has on those who are forced to live in it.
(2) "Enemies seek to destroy my life..." v.9
(3) v.2-3 "Yes, in the sanctuary I have seen you, and witnessed your power and splendor. Because experiencing your loyal love is better than life itself...
Twice David used a comparison: the thirst quenching God and the dry and parched land v.1; God's loyal love and life v.3. David desired God not only because David experienced the dangers of the present situation, but also he knew that what would be a better situation he might have if he hid himself in God. In the past he had this kind of experience. He knew God was powerful, glorious and He loved David.
Reflection:
For me to have this kind of desire for God I need to see the "danger" of my present situation. Am I in any kind of desert or do I face any enemy? Do I thirst for spiritual growth? Am I aware of the presence of the satanic attack? I need to cry out to God like what David did.
Also, I need to recall the experience I have with God or see the power and glory of God from the Bible. What did God do in the past that I have experienced His love for me? He forgave my sins and led me to Him. He healed me when I was sick. He protected me from danger and gave me joy. As I remembered all this I will praise God and rejoice in Him.
Audrey
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