Reading: Psalm 52-54
QUESTIONS
Chapter 52
- How does Psalm 52 challenge your understanding of power and success?
- How can you personally identify with the sentiments expressed in verse 8 about being an ‘olive tree in the house of God’?
Chapter 53
- How can the recognition of our inherent sinfulness lead us to seek God’s grace?
- Ask God to bless you with the ability to trust God rather than reflecting the folly of the wicked portrayed in Psalm 53.
Chapter 54
- How does David’s response to deliverance (offering sacrifice) demonstrate his commitment to God? How can we demonstrate a similar commitment today?
- What aspects of David’s prayer can you incorporate into your daily spiritual routine?
DEVOTION
Rooted
Spring is my favorite season. After months of brown and gray surroundings, I love seeing the plants emerge from the ground, and the trees bud with new growth. In the winter, it is sometimes hard to tell a healthy tree from a dead tree; but in the spring, healthy plants draw from their roots and their health (or lack of it) now shows above ground. The root system, though unseen, has been working through the dark winter,
gathering water, storing energy and nutrients, and slowly continuing to grow – all while keeping the tree firmly in place.
Psalms 52-54 were written by David when he was in a dark, wintery season of life, being hunted by Saul, a former friend turned relentless enemy.
Ps. 52:8-9 says, “But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever. I will thank you forever because you have done it. I will wait for your tame, for it is good, in the presence of the godly.” This first word, BUT, says a lot about David. The enemy “boasts of evil”, “plots destruction”, “loves evil”, “lies” and seeks to end David’s earthly life – BUT David is rooted in the safety and security of an unshakable God. He cannot yet see the evidence
of God’s promises but he refuses to be dismayed by the deteriorating situation around him.
Psalm 53 comes next and is an almost identical copy of Psalm 14. My study Bible notes suggest that they are likely alternate versions of the same hymn. In Psalm 53, the sinful and corrupt nature of man is on full display but we are again reminded that God is our salvation and hope.
Ps. 53:6, “Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion! When God restores the fortunes of his people, let Jacob rejoice, let Israel be glad.” This time of promised restoration is like the spring we know will come each year after a long winter.
In Psalm 54, David’s dark struggles continue as he continues to run from Saul’s attack. Rather than despair, he calls out to God and pleads for rescue, ending with yet another acknowledgement that God will fulfill his promises and triumph over man’s evil. David cannot yet see the hope of God’s victory – he is still in the cold, dark depths of his troubles. BUT he digs his roots down deep into God’s character, promises and steadfast
love and is sustained.
Lord, we desire to grow deep roots in your truth and hope. As we see the world around us blooming back to life, help us to celebrate your victory over the darkness of our sin. As we wait for that day when “hope springs eternal”, please nourish our roots and help us to cling to your steadfast love.
– Lauren Fowler