BASIC SCRIPTURE Daily Manna ODM 31 August 2023
BASIC SCRIPTURE: PSALM 36: 1-12
Psalm 36:1-12 (NIV)
1 I have a message from God in my heart concerning the sinfulness of the wicked: There is no fear of God before their eyes. 2 In their own eyes they flatter themselves too much to detect or hate their sin. 3 The words of their mouths are wicked and deceitful; they fail to act wisely or do good. 4 Even on their beds they plot evil; they commit themselves to a sinful course and do not reject what is wrong. 5 Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. 6 Your righteousness is like the highest mountains, your justice like the great deep. You, Lord, preserve both people and animals. 7 How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. 8 They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. 9 For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. 10 Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart. 11 May the foot of the proud not come against me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away. 12 See how the evildoers lie fallen—thrown down, not able to rise!
FINISH READING ODM: Daily Manna ODM 31 August 2023 THERE IS FATNESS IN THE HOUSE! STAY ON! HOLD ON!
Reflection:
Psalm 36 presents a contrasting view of the wickedness of human nature and the boundless attributes of God’s character. The psalmist starts by describing the sinful attitudes and behaviors of the wicked, highlighting their lack of fear for God and their inability to recognize or hate their own sin. They are characterized by deceit, wickedness, and the constant pursuit of evil.
However, the psalm takes a turn by beautifully describing the attributes of God:
- Love and Faithfulness: God’s love reaches to the heavens, and His faithfulness extends beyond what we can comprehend. His love is steadfast and enduring.
- Righteousness and Justice: God’s righteousness is likened to the highest mountains, and His justice is as deep as the great sea. He is perfectly just and righteous in all His ways.
- Provision and Refuge: God preserves both people and animals. His love is a refuge, and under the shadow of His wings, people find protection.
- Abundance and Delight: Those who seek God find abundance and delight in His presence. He provides for their needs and satisfies their desires.
- Fountain of Life: God is the source of life itself. His light illuminates our path and helps us see truth clearly.
Application:
- Awareness of Our Nature: Recognize the potential for sin within human nature and the need for humility, repentance, and a constant reliance on God’s grace.
- God’s Boundless Attributes: Meditate on God’s attributes of love, faithfulness, righteousness, justice, and provision. These qualities reflect His goodness and inspire our trust.
- Seeking Refuge: When facing challenges, remember that God’s love is a refuge. You can find comfort and protection under the shadow of His wings.
- Abundance in God: Seek satisfaction in God’s presence. He provides abundantly for those who seek Him and take refuge in Him.
- Source of Life: Embrace God as the source of true life and light. Through His guidance, you’ll see truth more clearly and navigate life’s challenges.
As you reflect on Psalm 36, may it remind you of both the fallenness of human nature and the greatness of God’s attributes. Seek to align your heart with God’s truth, find refuge in His love, and embrace the abundant life He offers.
