Psalm 28
David uses a number of metaphors to describe his relationship to the Lord: rock (v. 1), strength and shield (v. 7), saving refuge (v. 8), shepherd (v. 9). Yesterday we had two more – light and salvation (Ps 27:1). I’m asking myself if there are other metaphors that describe how I view the Lord in my life.
For Jesus I see Him as my friend and my Savior. Savior is an easy one, but friend? Yes, friend… I can easily see myself sitting at a bar drinking a beer with Jesus.
How do I see the Father? As Daddy, Papa…? For me, not so much – I have a hard time putting myself on His lap. I see Him more as almighty, powerful, omniscient, almost unapproachable even – yet I know that I have access directly to Him through Jesus.
How do I see the Holy Spirit? All of those attributes in John 14-16: Helper, Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Paraclete? All of those descriptors, I guess – He must be because Jesus said so! But I think I see the Holy Spirit more as my guide, my direction, or even, if you will, my wisdom. When I pray to be filled with the Holy Spirit, I want Him to lead in my life, especially when I am not even conscious of His work in my life. I want Him to be that “still, small voice” that Elijah heard (I Kings 19:11-12). And yes, I want Him to be more – so much more that I don’t even have words for what those wants might be. I think it’s enough for me to ask to be filled with the Spirit – daily, morning, noon, night, always. It’s enough.
I love those metaphors, Fred. For the Father, awe. For the Son, love and obedience. For the Spirit, peace.
I was struck by the verse about people who are cordial to their neighbors, but have malice in their hearts. Lord, save me from them, and myself when I am like that!
I see Jesus as the example to follow or emulate in seeking one’s best life. I always look to His path through life as for what is expected of us, and my continual prayer is to follow more closely that path. Help me be more like Jesus; help me be a better man. That has little to do with today’s Psalm, but Fred’s comments made me think of what Jesus means in my life.
Like Tom, I also see a plea to God for help and deliverance in Psalm 28. I am grieved by the needless destruction and death Russia has perpetrated on the Ukrainian people. I pray fervently for his help, strength, and intervention every day!