Psalm 119:38

Psalm 119:38

Fulfil Your promise to Your servant

It’s time for a little bit of speculation! What was the promise that the Lord was required to fulfil? Was this a personal matter between Him and the Psalm writer? Was it a more generalised promise that affected all of Israel at that particular time? Or did the promise embrace all of God’s Covenant stipulations for all of Israel, for all of time? It appears to be the first of these categories because the text implies that it was a specific agreement with God’s servant. The point is that when the Lord God makes a promise. Whether it is to an individual, a family or group, a nation, or to the world, He will honour His Word. “God is not human, that He should lie, not a human being, that he should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfil?” Numbers 23:19.

When the Lord acts in accordance with His promises He gains glory for His name and recognition from those who witness His deeds. It would be very difficult for us to trust in a God who never acts at all, who makes great pronouncements but who is never seen to back up His words with actions. That is the way with the gods of this world, but our God is different, if He says He will do! 

The world is in turmoil at this moment (early October 2024) as events unfold in the latest Middle East conflict, the media is full of stories and reports, and politicians and leaders are constantly be asked to give their views and to stand by Israel or against Israel. Few will keep their word; their words are reactionary whereas God’s words are both proactive and prophetic. He has promised to guard that ancient nation and to allow them to live in peace in their land and David believed Him and so should we! “And now, Lord God, keep forever the promise you have made concerning Your servant and his house. Do as You promised, so that Your name will be great forever. Then people will say, “The Lord Almighty is God over Israel!” And the house of Your servant David will be established in Your sight.” 2 Samuel 7:25-26. 

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