Wednesday, July 24 – Psalm 39, 2 Samuel 8
1. How is David’s government characterized? (2 Samuel 8:15)
2. Who was the chief of David’s army? (2 Samuel 8:16)
3. To what does David compare the brevity of his life? (Psalm 39:5)
Commentary and Reflection:
In the introduction to the commentary on Psalm 39, the Adventist Biblical Commentary reads:
“Psalm 39 is a penitential elegy which Ewald called “the most beautiful of all elegies in the Psalter.” It is the poignant expression of a soul at first unable to speak its grief. Incapable of repressing his emotions forever, the psalmist finally pours out his heart to God. There is in this psalm only one gleam of light, the profession of faith, “my hope is in thee” (v. 7). Like Job, the psalmist is concerned with the problem of suffering under the rule of a good God.” (SDABC, Introduction to Psalm 39)
Expressing feelings of sadness and frustration is beneficial for health. Bottling up these emotions can lead to bitterness and potentially result in health issues like gastritis, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, etc. Often, we remain silent to avoid giving loved ones a reason to worry. David says,
“I was mute with silence,
I held my peace even from good;
And my sorrow was stirred up.
My heart was hot within me;
While I was [a]musing, the fire burned.
Then I spoke with my tongue:…” (Psalm 39:2, 3)
Talking to someone you trust, such as a therapist, is good for your health. You should not be reluctant to see a psychologist if you need it. You can talk to a trusted friend or write your feelings in a journal for minor issues.
“The psalmist attempted to solve his problem by a blind submission to the will of God. Many attempt to solve the problem of suffering in the same way. They try to convince themselves that if God sends the punishment, it must be right and good. Like the psalmist, they do not understand the true philosophy of suffering (see on Ps. 38:3). Instead of recognizing Satan as the true author of disease and affliction, and God as the one who is working out the devices of the enemy for the good of the sufferer (see DA 471), they see disease and death as proceeding from God, as punishment arbitrarily inflicted on account of transgression.” (SDABC, Psalm 39:9)
It is recounted in 2 Samuel 8 that David defeated his opponents from neighboring nations and extended his kingdom over a large territory. It then lists the chief officers of his kingdom. The reason for his success is clearly stated, “And the Lord preserved David wherever he went.” (2 Samuel 8:14)
David was chosen and equipped not only for his talents but for his commitment to the Lord. His governance is described this way, “So David reigned over all Israel; and David administered judgment and justice to all his people.” (2 Samuel 8:15)
What a beautiful testimony. How wonderful it would be if such a statement were written about our lives and work. May God grant you the ability to act with fairness and righteousness today, as David did.
Have a very blessed day.