“The Lord swore to David a sure oath from which he will not turn back…”
(Psalm 132:11a, ESV)
I don’t know about you, but I struggle to make plans one month, one week, sometimes even one day out. Life is just so unpredictable; my emotions, my body, the state of this house are unpredictable. When I read in scripture how our God makes promises – grand promises! – to nations, to generations, to us even today and keeps them all, I have two distinct reactions: I am relieved. And then, I doubt.
Isn’t it too good to be true?
Psalm 132 is a song about promises. It is about a promise David made to God, a vow not to rest until he found “a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob” (v.5, ESV). What David is searching for is the Ark of the Covenant, a wooden box containing reminders of God’s promises and provisions for the people of Israel. The Ark was a symbol of God’s presence. David vowed to find it, to keep it near, and he did just that.
But more that this, Psalm 132 is about God’s promise to David. God made a covenant with David that his future generations would inherit the throne, that God’s presence and provision would be with them also.
If we learn one thing in Scripture, it is that our God delights in keeping His promises. He delights in redeeming us and in exceeding our expectations.
It is true that David’s son Solomon inherited the throne, but the larger story is one even David could not have imagined. God fulfilled His covenant with David through Christ, through God made man. God not only gave David’s line the throne; God gave them – and us – Himself.
“This is my resting place forever; here I will dwell, for I have desired it” (emphasis added, v. 14, ESV).
Sisters, this means us. We are God’s resting place. Forever.
He dwells within us, not because of our goodness, our accomplishments or our faithfulness, but because He desired us. He has chosen us. Yes, God is faithful because faithfulness is who He is, but it is also His choice to be faithful.
He chose you yesterday. He chooses you today. He will choose you tomorrow.
But the promise does not end there. He vows to bless us. He promises salvation and joy, physical and spiritual provision.
We can expect His faithfulness. We can expect His blessing.
Our God may not be predictable, but He is faithful. He is trustworthy. We can expect Him to do what He says He will do.
Ok. :)
I’m not sure where you’re getting your info, but good topic.
I needs to spend some time learning more or understanding more.
Thanks for great information I was looking for this info for
my mission.
Much need, awesome
I live off God’s promises. He promised never to leave nor forsake mr. He promised to walk closer to me than any brother and that I will never walk alone again.
I continue to be so encouraged by this study. Something I am learning daily—the more of our time and energy and "thinking space" we give to God, the more He fills us with His peace and presence. It's scary sometimes and not always easy to do with our busy lives. But the more I am in the Word and the more I speak openly to him, the more peace I feel. It's hard to understand the history of the truth of His fulfilled promises over and over again if we don't read the Bible! Seems like a simple concept but it's really been on my heart this week.
Sometimes the simple truths of God are the hardest to see. You have said it so well, "the more of our time and energy and 'thinking space' [ love that phrase] we give to God, the more He fills is with His peace and presence." God truly can expand time in our busy lives if we seek Him. Thanks for sharing, Casey.
Oh Lord, how you love your people! He will keep His promise!
I find it so interesting, both as a Canadian and as a follower of Christ, to watch all of the current events that are taking place around Israel. Most recently, the visit made by US President Obama with Israel's leaders in their homeland. With all of the apparent tensions arising, it is easy to become anxious as we watch. But we know this is true. As things unfold, we will continue to see God faithful to His promise to His people. His plan to preserve His covenant with them. With us.
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.” For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, “Peace be within you.” For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity." Psalm 122:6-9 (NIV)
"Not one of all the Lord ’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled." Joshua 21:45 (NIV)
So comforting He will keep His promises, not forsake me, no matter how undeserving I am!
Thank you Father!