Psalm 41
Today's Passage: Psalm 41
When David wrote this psalm, it seems he was suffering from both an illness and bad friends. The words are general enough that they can apply to anyone feeling forlorn.
He says in verse 1 that those who consider the poor are blessed. Based on the rest of the psalm, the word “poor” could mean poor in several ways: weakness, helplessness, poverty, no knowledge of God, etc. But what does it really mean to consider them?
Someone who truly considers the poor is kind to those in need. They trust God, are willing to give of their own resources, and help those who are likely not ever going to be able to repay them. Derek Kidner, an Old Testament scholar, once said, “The word [consider] implies giving careful thought to this person’s situation rather than perfunctory help.”
Essentially, truly considering the poor is something righteous people do. Are we truly considering those around us? Are we alert to the trials of our coworkers, our neighbors, our family? Are we flexible enough to meet the needs we see even when it is inconvenient or costs us something?
We know from the ministry of Jesus that he was exactly that: alert to those with needs around Him, no matter the cost. Verse 9 says, “Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.” This reminds me of Judas betraying Jesus.
How can you be more alert to people around you this week? Pray for the Lord to reveal needs to you!
Written By: Kaitlin White
When David wrote this psalm, it seems he was suffering from both an illness and bad friends. The words are general enough that they can apply to anyone feeling forlorn.
He says in verse 1 that those who consider the poor are blessed. Based on the rest of the psalm, the word “poor” could mean poor in several ways: weakness, helplessness, poverty, no knowledge of God, etc. But what does it really mean to consider them?
Someone who truly considers the poor is kind to those in need. They trust God, are willing to give of their own resources, and help those who are likely not ever going to be able to repay them. Derek Kidner, an Old Testament scholar, once said, “The word [consider] implies giving careful thought to this person’s situation rather than perfunctory help.”
Essentially, truly considering the poor is something righteous people do. Are we truly considering those around us? Are we alert to the trials of our coworkers, our neighbors, our family? Are we flexible enough to meet the needs we see even when it is inconvenient or costs us something?
We know from the ministry of Jesus that he was exactly that: alert to those with needs around Him, no matter the cost. Verse 9 says, “Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.” This reminds me of Judas betraying Jesus.
How can you be more alert to people around you this week? Pray for the Lord to reveal needs to you!
Written By: Kaitlin White
1 Comment
I think we have all heard "being intentional" at CPC. We need to do that more often...and I am preaching to me!!!! Thanks Kaitlin!!!