Psalms 66-67
Dear RTB’ers,
Another two psalms today, both without labels as to who the author might be; the oddity for us is that they are not ascribed to David. Our STS authors and my Study Bible and an external reference all suggest that King Hezekiah might be the author, coming from his victory over the Assyrians. Two of those sources suggest that we read Isaiah 37; the third suggests II Kings 19, a duplicate of Isaiah 37.
I was encouraged by the middle verses of Psalm 66: For You, O God, have tested us; You have tried us as silver is tried. You brought us into the net; You laid a crushing burden on our backs; You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; yet You have brought us out to a place of abundance. (vv. 66:10-12) The author and his people have gone through testing and come out on the other side. He further acknowledges that he was trusting God through it all. I will perform my vows to You, that which … my mouth promised when I was in trouble. (vv. 66:13b-14) It is often difficult to pray with confidence when we are facing difficulties. We often hear that times of testing are there for our benefit, to “refine” us as does hot fire to precious metals. We are asked to see God at work, even when things are not going our way. We need to believe that and to claim two constant reminders – “God is God and I am not” and “Your will be done.” Hezekiah (like David earlier) sets a good example for us.
Blessings.
See also:
James 1:12