Summary: To be worth even a spot as a stranger in God's presence, David says, a person has to be just about blameless, living with integrity in his word and deed.
Response: I mean, it's not being holy (set apart for God's use), but each thing talked about is really about being honest so that you don't take advantage of other people. That sounds doable, though I know I've failed at this plenty.
Summary: David sees the suffering of his people at the hands of the wicked and, though he wishes for God's deliverance, he acknowledges that no one is really deserving of it.
Response: Again, that David knew of these feelings, came to those different conclusions, and still felt bold enough to ask for mercy anyway is pretty amazing. I'm hoping that, with time, I find some boldness in prayer or in spreading God's love.
Summary: David feels ignored because God hasn't yet delivered him; still, he trusts God to save him and praises Him even now.
Response: If anything, I feel like the one who's ignoring God, not the other way around. Lord, help me to truly make time for You in the little choices that add up to big chunks of time.
Summary: David paints God as a defender of the poor and needy against those who would take advantage of them.
Response: So maybe I'm just more in tune with this raw emotion of David's? Like, I'd much rather pray about justice for the less fortunate than smiting those who I feel deserve it. I know more than some just how blessed I am, so I don't want to discredit that blessing. Lord, continue to grow me in passion for You, not just knowledge.
Summary: David scoffs at the notion that he should fear from wicked people when he has the backing of God.
Response: Lord, help me to trust in You to get through this week. Help me to do Your will in spite of my busyness.
Summary: David sees injustice caused by wicked men all around, while God seemingly looks the other way. He pleads with God not to let them go unpunished.
Response: Now this is a primal urge I can get behind. Man injustice is rampant today. The way our ways of life are set up are designed to take advantage of one another. That's not how God designed us to live! Lord, help me be part of that change, part of that justice; help me to take that first small step.
(recommended listening: "The Trapper and the Furrier," Regina Spektor [warning: mild language])
Summary: David exclaims God's mercy and provision. Even while others give up and fall, those who are trusting in the Lord don't just survive but thrive.
Response: The Lord is good! I was fairly grossly sick yesterday afternoon and evening, but I'm feeling much better this morning. Yes, I followed steps so it would happen, but I won't miss an opportunity to praise God for healing!
