Today’s reading is Psalm 57.
Daniel could have written this psalm. He knew life among lions, both figuratively and literally. Though David did not get tossed into a lions’ den, lions roamed the Judean wilderness. When David explained his willingness to face Goliath to Saul in 1 Samuel 17:34-36, he recalled lion attacks on his flocks. His flight to and refuge in Adullam reminded him of those attacks.
These lions, fiery beasts, or children of men had teeth as spears and arrows and tongues as sharp as swords. David used that imagery several times in this series of Miktams. In Psalm 55:21, his companion had speech as smooth as butter, but actually his words “were drawn swords.” In Psalm 59:7, the “dogs” prowl about the city “bellowing with their mouths with swords in their lips.” The words and slander of David’s enemies did as much damage to him as their weapons.
What a glorious picture. David lies down among lions and fiery beasts. This picture presents David ending his day in danger, going to bed with Damocles’ sword hanging by even less than a thread above his head. However, notice vs. 8-9. Despite the night’s treacherous threats, David will awake the dawn with thanksgiving and praise to God. Rather than the dawning sunlight waking David, David will cause the sun to rise with his thanksgiving and praise. God carried David through the dangerous night.
Though written centuries before, this does sound like Daniel. When Darius rose early the morning after tossing Daniel into the lions’ den, he found Daniel alive and well. He awoke the dawn, if you will. Darius cast down Daniel’s accusers into the pit and trap they had set for Daniel. Then he wrote a letter of praise “to all the peoples, nations, and languages that dwell in all the earth” (Daniel 6:25), just as David will give thanks among the peoples and sing praises among the nations.
God’s love extends above the heavens, His faithfulness beyond the clouds. His love and faithfulness can be seen by all. Therefore, David will praise God in the presence of all.
Have you ever had to lie among lions? Trust God. He will wake you in the morning to bring Him praise and glory.
Praise the Lord!
Tomorrow’s reading is Psalm 57.
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PATHS:
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How does Psalm 57 admonish you?
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