Psalm 61:5

Psalm 61:5

Vows and heritage

A vow, in these ancient times, was not to be taken lightly. It was made in the inner court of the Tabernacle or Temple and accompanied by sacrifice. It was an oath before God and usually followed by a fellowship or freewill offering (Leviticus 7:16-18). After the ceremonial offering there was often a celebratory meal, with family and friends, using part of the meat from the offering. Such vows were therefore solemn affairs but also public, other people knew what had been promised to the Lord God and would hold you to your word. David pleaded with the Lord, on many occasions, to save him from danger and to protect the kingdom. Time and again he made promises based on the hope of deliverance from trouble. These were not empty words, they were written down and became public property in the Psalm Book of David. Why we read them still today! David was usually a man of his word, if he made a promise or a vow to God he would endeavour to keep it. Against the backdrop of these promises the King is now able to reflect that the Lord heard his vows. The evidence is there for all to see in that the King has been blessed and so has his kingdom. Instead of feeling sorry for himself and crying for help, David now sees that he has an amazing heritage such as could only be enjoyed by one who fears the name of the Lord.

Have you ever stopped to reflect, like David, and to review all that God has done for you? I have recently been in touch, online, with a man who trusted in Christ 50 years ago, he was member of a Christian Youth Club that I ran. Today he lives in Idaho and still follows the Lord with his wife and grown-up son. I was also sent a short video this week of a woman being baptized; she was also part of that youth work. I have amazing children, an amazing wife and wonderful friends. I am blessed to be part of a church fellowship that values Bible teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayer. What a heritage and it is all the Lord’s gift to me. What is your heritage or what will it be? 

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