Shoulder To Shoulder #1324 -- 1-9-23 ---- "Fiercely Facing A Formidable Future" (Psalm 2:1-6; Psalm 46:1-11)
SHOULDER TO SHOULDER is a weekly letter of encouragement Bob has written since 1997, covering many topics selected to
motivate people to be strong students of the Word and courageous witnesses of Jesus Christ. It is a personal letter of
encouragement to you, written solely to help "lift up hands that hang down".
"The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything." -- Albert Einstein
“There is a common, worldly kind of Christianity in this day, which many have, and think they have -- a cheap Christianity which offends nobody,
and requires no sacrifice, which costs nothing, -- and is worth nothing.” – J. C. Ryle
Shoulder To Shoulder #1324 -- 1-9-23
Title: "Fiercely Facing A Formidable Future" (Psalm 2:1-6; Psalm 46:1-11)
My Dear Friend and Co-Laborer With Christ:
We are now well into the second week of a brand new year. We don't have another traditional holiday until the middle of February, and it seems that this time of year is a long-awaited opportunity to catch our breath.
In a way, though, this year the week may be a little murkier than most -- due for the most part to Putin's invasion of Ukraine, the recent turmoil in Washington, and a clear uncertainty of the future. Putin keeps pounding away at a people dwarfed by Russia's size but with gigantic courage, a major overhaul of the House of Representatives with new leadership and new rules, and a world still seeming to "go mad" in its helter-skelter plunge into fulfilled Biblical predictions.
There's no doubt about it ---- you and I are living in a strange and new scenario of uncharted waters, the details of which are known only by the God and Creator of the Universe. It is that assurance, though, that gives us hope and confidence for whatever 2023 dishes out to us. Like Joshua, we can also be bold and courageous, even though we have not passed this way before.
Recently I preached on the topic of, " Can I Face Another New Year Confidently?" as part of my current seasonal series at Chapel de Oro, "Straight Answers to Serious Questions". Although I don't normally do so, I want to share some of the thoughts with you that I shared with the Chapel; they seem to be so fitting to us right now.
Two points of influence seem to prod me to do so ---- 1) the realization that we may well be into the "season of the fig tree" Jesus described in Matthew 24, and 2) Messianic rabbi Jonathan Cahn's fairly recent book, Return of the Gods. Jesus used the "fig tree" and the evidence that fruit was forthcoming because one could already see the green leaves and the blooms that precede the fruit. He pointed to the rebirth of Israel as being the blooms. He stated that when we saw the convergence of the fifteen different prophecies taking place all at the very same time after Israel had returned to its homeland from 2,000 years of exile, it was that generation that would see the return of Christ.
Cahn's book gives us a startling look at another principle that marks to eminent return of Christ, and that is a radical global return to the many pagan gods of ancient Babylon and Egypt in political, economic, and demonic forms. In that I am now in the process of reading it, I will go no further in describing the thrust of the book other than to say that Cahn, in his own unique way, has deeply researched scripture and history in such thoroughness that he firmly believes that the hordes of demons to be released from the bottomless pit in last days has truly begun, and that those false gods are bringing great confusion, deception, and bondage to millions of people in an aggressive attempt to complete Satan's agenda shaped in the Garden of Eden -- that is, to destroy that which is most precious God, namely the human race that He created exclusively with whom to enjoy and have eternal fellowship.
So, with those two factors throbbing in my mind just now -- evidence of the "fig tree" fulfillment and the current "return of the gods" from ancient days -- I'd like to consider what makes you and me think we can survive what is currently upon us and that which will at some point come upon us. For, you see, this is no time to be timid or afraid, and there is promised hope for all who endure burdensome suffering and painful persecution. So, let's do that, right after you consider . . .
THIS 'N' THAT:
+ Giants Have Fallen: In the past two weeks, three people of great significance have died. All three were voices of righteousness and hope -- my former pastor and international revivalist and conference speaker, Jim Hylton, Pentecostal preacher and author of books and the song, "Majesty", Jack Hayford, and conservative media and social media personality, Lynette "Diamond" Hardaway of "Diamond and Silk. Each in their own sphere of influence were serious voices for spiritual realities and cultural issues.
It was my privilege to serve as Jim's associate just as great revival lasting some three years swept through the Ozarks community of West Plains, MO. Our lives were forever changed, and closely knit together. Jim was 87, three years my senior. Few preachers were a greater "pastors' pastor" than Jack Hayford, and I benefited tremendously from his ministry via television, DVD's, and books. "Diamond", the few times I saw her on television, was about as "in your face" as you can get with her beliefs in honesty, truth, and other Judeo-Christian values. I loved hearing her and her sister, "Silk" "ping-pong" a topic back and forth before bringing their joint commentary to an abrupt conclusion with a nod of the head and an, "Uh-huh! That's right!"
+ Five Modern Martyrs: -- It was 67 years ago this week that five American missionaries were brutally murdered by a primitive aboriginal tribe in Ecuador. On January 10th 1956, five missionaries, Jim Elliot, Pete Fleming, Ed McCully, Nate Saint and Roger Youderian were killed by the Waodani tribe in Ecuador. Now this tribe has a Bible in their own language and many that committed the murders became believers. Steve Saint, son of one of the martyrs, returned to that same tribe, shared the Gospel with them, and saw many come to Christ -- including the very man who had killed his father. From that experience, Steve wrote a book, End of the Spear, which was later produced into an award winning movie. Read the book, and watch the movie.
+ Never Forget This: -- I cannot remember how Vince Di'Anchioli and I met -- or when or where. All I know is that I get his e-mails and we periodically respond to each other's Facebook posts. This morning his "TargetPoint" really caught my attention -- for a couple reasons. First, I certainly identified with the struggle he had in writing it; that happens to me often -- especially if it turns out to be something that is significant to what others may need.
Second, the title -- "Protected - Set Apart" -- seemed to focus on a theme that is central to our own ministry, namely that when we became followers of Christ, we were set apart "from", set apart "to", and set apart "for". In reading it, I immediately knew I needed to pass the link on to you. So, read on . . . . at https://us19.campaign-archive.com/?e=e6fd7888fc&u=99c4e94bf974aadce4d693c5e&id=1d8c295d1d.
QUOTES FOR THE WEEK:
> "Then the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star from heaven which had fallen to the earth; and the key of the bottomless pit was given to him. He opened the bottomless pit, and smoke went up out of the pit, like the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by the smoke of the pit. Then out of the smoke came locusts upon the earth, and power was given them, as the scorpions of the earth have power." -- John the Apostle (Rev 9:1-3)
> "IS IT POSSIBLE that behind what is happening to America and the world lies a mystery hidden in the ancient inscriptions of the Middle East? Is it possible that the ancient entities known as the “gods” are more than fiction and possess an independent reality? Is it possible that they have returned to our world? . . . . Is it possible that the dynamics of ancient mythology have actually played out in our public squares and on our city streets in real time?" -- Jonathan Cahn, Return of the Gods
> "No natural feelings are high or low, holy or unholy, in themselves. They are all holy when God's hand is on the rein. They all go bad when they set up on their own and make themselves into false gods." -- C. S. Lewis
"Why are the nations in an uproar And the peoples devising a vain thing? The kings of the earth take their stand And the rulers take counsel together Against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, 'Let us tear their fetters apart And cast away their cords from us!' He who sits in the heavens laughs, The Lord scoffs at them. Then He will speak to them in His anger And terrify them in His fury, saying, 'But as for Me, I have installed My King Upon Zion, My holy mountain'." -- King David (Psalm 2:1-6)
> "To build refuges of my own making is to construct fortresses of sand at ocean's edge, where the relentless tides of time will leave my most magnificently constructed walls as perfectly flat sand. And now that I am subject to the very tides that destroyed these walls of mine, I am left with the reality that my single and sole refuge can only be the God who created both tides and sand." -- Craig D. Lounsbrough, The Eighth Page
> "I do not doubt that our country will finally come through safe and undivided. But do not misunderstand me ... I do not rely on the patriotism of our people ... the bravery and devotion of the boys in blue ... (or) the loyalty and skill of our generals ... But the God of our fathers, Who raised up this country to be the refuge and asylum of the oppressed and downtrodden of all nations, will not let it perish now. I may not live to see it ... I do not expect to see it, but God will bring us through safe." -- Abraham Lincoln
> "Many a sin has sullied me in body and in soul because I did not restrain my thoughts nor guard my lips: nevertheless it is to Thee, O God of majesty and love, that I turn in my extremity, for Thou art the fount of mercy; to Thee, as quickly as I may, I speed: for Thou alone canst heal me; I take refuge under Thy protection." -- Saint Ambrose
> "“Possibly the most debilitating deception of all is to create a god of my own making, fool myself into believing that this limp god of mine is the true God, and then construct the entirety of my life on this flamboyantly fictional character. Possibly the most devastating realization of all is when the real God shows up, and in the showing up all of this come crashing down.” -- Craig D. Lounsbrough, The Eighth Page
> "“In order for a thing or an idea to truly be a false god, people must not only make it an end in itself, they must believe it is a worthy and noble thing to live for. Genuine false gods are therefore often beautiful things people come to venerate as ends in and of themselves -- things such as education, art, and even love and religion. All of these things are noble when pursued in the service of God and goodness, but when removed from God and goodness, they can lead to evil.
When art is not a vehicle to God and God-centered morality, it often becomes a morally worthless false god.” -- Dennis Prager, The Rational Bible: Exodus
> "Prayer is essentially the practice of the presence of God, and that is the road to Heaven. There is no alternative. God is the only game in town. All other roads are dead ends. Since we must give our all to the one true God, we must not give any part to idols, to the many false gods that now bite away at our lives." -- Peter Kreeft
A PROBLEMATIC PLANET:
We are now into a new year with a sense, humanly speaking, of uncertainty and foreboding . . . and sometimes even fear. World conditions seem chaotic, at least three global powers seem set on destroying us, a war rages in Ukraine, our culture is saturated with dishonesty, we wonder if we can trust anyone, and sin surrounds us. We, indeed, are living on a problematic planet -- with no serious answers.
Even mature & strong Christians are seeing the urgent necessity of putting our complete trust in God alone. It seems everything is out of control and demonic forces have been unleashed with destructive vengeance such as we have never seen up to now. For those without Christ, it can be a terrifying day in a terror-ridden world.
The scripture I want to examine here, the basis of Martin Luther’s majestic hymn, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”, reveals the vast panorama of God’s full & eternal adequacy – past, present, & future. Because it not only refers to God’s presence and power in past victories but also His presence and power in the future during the millennial reign of Christ, it gives great hope and encouragement to us today, -- we who are caught in between the two.
Consider these two texts:
+ Psalm 2:1-6 --
" Why are the nations in an uproar And the peoples devising a vain thing? The kings of the earth take their stand And the rulers take counsel together Against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, 'Let us tear their fetters apart And cast away their cords from us!'
"He who sits in the heavens laughs, The Lord scoffs at them. Then He will speak to them in His anger And terrify them in His fury, saying, 'But as for Me, I have installed My King Upon Zion, My holy mountain'."
+ Psalm 46:1-11--
"God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride.
"There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy dwelling places of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.
"The nations made an uproar, the kingdoms tottered; He raised His voice, the earth melted. The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold.
"Come, behold the works of the LORD, Who has wrought desolations in the earth. He makes wars to cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariots with fire.
"Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold."
The bottom line is pretty simple and easy to understand -- While nations rage and demons war, God laughs. Therefore, we can find great hope, courage, and joy now. He was their fortress then, He is ours now, and in the future. The secret imperative is to remember that God is Al-ways Present with His people, NO MATTER WHAT – whether before the battle, in the middle of the battle, after the battle, or, in the case of David, in celebration.
GOD'S PERPETUAL PRESENCE: (Ps 46:1-3)
“God is our refuge & strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride.”
Never forget -- the available help of God is greater than any crisis. I don't want to turn this letter into a Bible training class, but look at some of the key words -- like facets on a priceless diamond, each adding its depth and hue:
1. “God” - ĕlôhı̂ym = “exceedingly supreme & sovereign creator God, above all other gods”. David actually uses two distinct words for "God" in this Psalm, both different from the other. This first one is in comparison to all the false gods of Edom, Moab, Ammon and Egypt that plagued Israel.
The Moabites were the incestuous descendants of Lot’s oldest daughter and Lot (Gen 19:37). Their primary god, Chemosh, was the god of destruction. The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob’s brother. Their primary god, Qaus (or Qos), specialized in destructive might, mayhem, and murder through the use of archery. The Ammonites were the incestuous descendant of Lot’s youngest daughter and Lot (Gen 19:38). Their primary god, Milcom, specialized in human (infant, young child) sacrifice, much like Molech.
Note Two extremes or contrasts: – First, the gods of Edom and Ammon were the antithesis of Elohiym in total rejection through incest, while, second, the god of Moab was an Luciferian trying to be like Him by imitation. We also see from the study of the plagues and Israel's exodus from Egypt the radical difference between Elohiym and those gods. Everything Elohiym stood for, the pagan gods represented just the opposite.
It is no wonder that the word "Elohiym" was used by David because it was that very God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that was David's personal God as well. He had seen enough differences in his life to know exactly Who the "supreme and sovereign creator God" was. This was the God the Holy Spirit guided David to use in writing this song.
2. “Refuge” - machăseh machseh = “safe, secure, needful shelter”. Obviously, I cannot know what David was thinking about when he used the word, "refuge", but one thing comes to my mind, and that is the place down in the wilderness just west of the Dead Sea, called En Gedi. It was a place David knew full well because the nearby caves of En Gedi were almost certainly the places where David and his men hid out when Saul and his army pursued them in Saul's attempt to kill David. The story is told in I Samuel, chapters 23 and 24.
Meaning, "the spring of a young goat", it certainly still lives up to its name. En Gedi was an ancient (at least 4,000 years as a settlement) place near Masada and Qumran, off the western shores of the Dead Sea where a cluster of four springs fed a stream-turned-oasis around which mountain goats and other wildlife would roam because of green vegetation and fresh water. When Jo Ann and I visited there in November, 2008 before returning to the United States from our years in Ukraine, there were mountain goats all over the place even out where it exited out into the valley around the Dead Sea. They were so numerous and so accustomed to people, that we could come within two or three feet of some of them.
Originally called Hazezon Tamar (“Division of the Palms”) because of the surrounding palm trees (II Chron 20:2), the area of En Gedi was once inhabited by the Amorites (Gen 14:7). Once the Israelites entered the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, En Gedi was allotted to the tribe of Judah (Josh 15:1, 61–62). It is not coincidental that it was the Tribe of Praise (Judah) to which it was allotted. There is a town there that is actually one of the six mentioned in Joshua 15:62, so we know it existed long before David ever visited it. Along the wadi or gorge numerous caves provided shelter, shade, and safety for both animal life and man. Some of them were exceptionally secure and difficult to attack.
I don't know if En Gedi is what David remembered when he described God as his refuge (he could have been thinking of a fortress or a tower such as those around Jerusalem, of course), but his experience seeking refuge there from Saul who was out to kill him always comes to mind. However, for over 2,000 years the main stream flowing from those four springs has been known as "Nahal David", meaning, "David's Stream" because it has long been recognized as the place where David hid from Saul and cut off a section of Saul's cape. For well over 100 years hiking trails have followed the stream up to the purported cave in which many believe David hid from Saul.
The next word is . . .
3. “Strength” - oz or = “Mighty, powerful, fortress, stronghold”. The use of this word describing "strength" as a very safe and protected type of strength can easily lead us to conclude that En Gedi might not have been David's frame of reference in that it describes strength not only as an ability, but also as a place -- a fortress or stronghold -- a place or position of safety and protection. When you link "refuge" and "strength" together, as David did here, the picture is electric with rich meaning. David created no confusion as to his understanding as to the matchless power and safety of his "Elohiym" -- His sovereign, eternal, God of all creation.
4. “Present Help” - mâtsâ' ‛ezrâh ‛ezrâth = “immediately visible helper, aide, and support”. David's understand of God's protection and aid left no doubt that not only was it from God, and not only was it available, but it was instantly available in a moment's notice. He saw God's protection, power, and provision as never being more than an instant away. As each word builds upon the previous one, so our confidence in Him builds as well. Our sovereign, eternal, creator God is the One Who is our safety, our strength, our sustenance, and our sufficiency -- at the very instant of our . . .
5. “Trouble” – tsarah = “affliction, distress, tumult, anguish”. By the time David wrote this Psalm (most scholars believe it was written not too long before his death at age 70 or 71), he had certainly had his share. From his position as the youngest of eight boys relegated to daydreaming and writing songs as he tended sheep, his confrontations with predatory animals, his role as a fighting soldier, his encounters with a troubled and unpredictable Saul, his military campaigns, the loss of his dearest friend (Jonathan), the tragic death of his son (Absalom), his moral failures, and all the rest -- he knew what "trouble" was. He had tasted it first hand. He knew that life was filled with trouble; many of his other Psalms leave no doubt that David understood trouble -- trouble of every kind -- affliction, distress, shame, fear, anguish, tumultuous times. That certainty is more obvious when you look at his use of . . .
6. Descriptive words – “earth change” (46:2), “mountains slip” (46:2), “waters roar” (46:3), “waters foam” (46:3), “mountains quake” (46:3). It is highly improbable that David used these words hypothetically or merely allegorically. I believe they revealed his heart shaped from real life experiences. You may wonder if David ever experienced geological or maritime changes such as are described here, but it is highly possible, and even probable at one time or another.
Two major geological and meteorological facts of Israel lead me to believe that David knew full well both anthropological dangers and natural dangers -- from life's experiences. Regarding weather, David understood the wrath of storms approaching his land from the Mediterranean Sea, he understood desert sand storms sweeping across from the Negev and the Arabian Desert. He was well familiar with the destructive floods that would often sweep down the Jordan River Valley.
Geologically, he doubtless was also familiar with earthquakes that could level city walls and open chasms and gaping crevasses in the earth's crust. Israel is covered with settlements destroyed in ages past by earthquakes. The Jordan River valley actually follows along a fault line called The Dead Sea Rift. Numerous secondary fault lines run either parallel to it or branch off through the mountainous region to the west.
Archaeological discoveries, for example, unearthed the remains of an ancient Canaanite palace destroyed some 3,700 years ago in the western Galilee region. That was a thousand years before David reigned. In 2021 archaeologists discovered evidence of a serious earthquake in Jerusalem that took place 2,800 years ago during the 8th Century B.C. (749 B.C.). Both the Old Testament books of Amos and Zechariah refer to that earthquake. When Jo Ann and I visited Israel in November, 2008, we saw the ruins of Biet She'an in northern Israel, destroyed during that earthquake. We saw other sites as well in northern Galilee -- Tiberias, Capernaum, Bethsaida, etc. -- that showed evidence of ancient earthquakes.
So? . . . . .
My point is simple -- it is almost inevitable that when David refers to geological phenomenon and natural disasters to describe his life's troubles, he is describing real conditions and real events. So, when he talks about God being both his safe place and strength, it is not just theoretical -- it is very, very real. And yet, in spite of it all, he saw God -- as you and I also must -- as our "fortress", our "strong tower", our safe haven, our En Gedi for it is in that recognition that we discover . . .
GOD'S PEACEFUL PROVISION: (46:4-5)
“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, The holy dwelling places of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.”
Again, there are some key words we need to examine closely:
1. “River” – nahar = “large flowing productive prosperous flooding/ed stream -- the sea; canal” But, this isn't just any river. The word used indicate a broad, deep, long, endless, mighty, flowing river. It's not merely a "Big Muddy" or "Little Muddy" river like where I grew up in southern Illinois. It's not even like the Indiana River, the Ohio River, or the Wisconsin River, -- all of which I have seen with all their rich beauty and wild life.
No, the word here is a river such as the Euphrates, the Nile, or the Mississippi. It's journey begins as a trickle; and as it advances it grows in size until it finally reaches such a vast size that it covers an entire region. We call that a "Delta” region where the river is so enormous that its banks cannot contain it, and it breaks out into a great fan – like the mighty Mississippi as it flows into the Gulf of Mexico. It is like the territory of “Goshen” where Joseph's family settled at Pharaoh's insistence -- the Nile Delta.
The picture is that of plenty, of freshness, of richness, of lush abundance. Perhaps it is best illustrated in Ezekiel's vision (Ezek 47:1-12) -- or perhaps in John's vision (Rev 22:1-5). Frankly, this tells me that, no matter the intensity or enormity of the poverty, perversion, and perplexities of life as you and I are facing it today -- nd wil inevitably face throughout all our tomorrows -- God's provision will be far more than we need, than we can use, or than we can absorb. It is truly mind boggling, the goodness, abundance, and provision God has for us. Neither you nor I can every sufficiently describe it. All we can do is recognize it, receive it, and rest in it.
But, David uses another word that is very different from "rivers". It is the word, . . .
2. “Streams” – peleg = “channels, canals, tributaries” . While "rivers" describe the primary source, the word "streams" describe the distribution network through which the "river" of God's provision flows. You might say it is the "delta" region -- the "Goshen" of God's goodness as it spreads and riches into virtually every "field" of life. God's provision is never withheld from any area of our lives. His "River" of provision comes to us through a network of application and distribution.
When Jesus announced His public ministry in the synagogue in Nazareth, He quoted from Isaiah 61 in describing His ministry and purpose for coming. I preached about that last Sunday. Within the five specific areas He announced, virtually every area of life was covered -- spiritual, material, relational, physical, etc. Later He declared that anyone who believes in Him and puts their trust in Him, out of their innermost being will flow "rivers" of living water.
It is so refreshing to realize that this wondrous "River" branches out into "streams" -- tributaries that leave no part of our lives untouched by His presence and provision. So, while David is likely alluding to Jerusalem as his focus, . . .
3. “City of God”. . . -- ar or = “dwelling places” = “residence, tabernacle, temple”. This little phrase has both a personal and a corporate application. Paul described us as being "God's field" or "God's building" (I Cor 3:9), "God's temple" (I Cor 3:16), and the "temple of the Holy Spirit" (I Cor 6:19-20). So, when David describes the "city of God" he is not just referring to a physical city in Israel, but rather a spiritual dwelling place -- a residence -- a tabernacle -- a temple -- where God can take up residency and presidency. In doing so, he is reminding us that, since we are such a dwelling place, no matter what happens to us, we will not be . . .
4. “Moved: - mot = “tottered, shaken, brought down”. The word being used here sounds just like an earthquake that shakes everything into powder. David, however, reminds us that while geological quakes may destroy material things, emotional, relational, and cultural shakings will never demolish those who have put their faith and trust in El Ohiym. Why? Because He is our "En Gedi" where all safety is guaranteed, all needs are met, and all provision is sufficient.
This is all so important to remember -- because while the world around us seems to be blowing apart at the seams, we still confidently rest in . . .
GOD'S IMPENETRABLE PROTECTION: (46:6-7)
“The nations made an uproar, the kingdoms tottered; He raised His voice, the earth melted. The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold.”
Once again, in order to be beneficiaries of the full impact of this Psalm, we need to give special attention to more specific words, such as . . .
1. “Nations” -- gôy gôy = “gentiles, non-Jews”. Symbolically, unbelievers and pagans. -- as compared to the Jewish people who had been called out by God to trust, follow, and serve Him. The important point here is that it is totally unnatural and unrealistic to think that God-followers would ever be stressed over circumstances or would fight against God's order and purposes for them. The "gentiles" might -- and would -- and do; but Not nations who trust fully in Him.
That in itself tells us a little of where we are as a nation -- a nation that was founded by people who recognized Him, yearned for a place where they could freely worship Him, and a place from where they could send the Gospel to other nations needing that Gospel. Frankly, there has never been a "gentile" nation that was formed as a direct result of hungry hearts seeking God and longing to share Him with others -- that is, until the era of the Industrial Revolution when things began to change, we began to wallow in our successes and power, and we wandered into materialism and ultimate rejection of God's directives for nations.
2. “Uproar” - hâmâh = “loud constant angry disquieted raging, clamor, a boisterous roar”. When I read this verse and think of the "uproar", I think of one main characteristic -- a "ferocious fearful frenzy". David seems to have looked around at all the various nations surrounding his tiny kingdom and noticed just how angry they were at such a minority people, how terrorized they seemed to have been at Israel's presence, and how thoroughly confused and in disarray they seemed to be. Obviously much of this was not so much about the Kingdom of Israel as it was how their God -- El Ohiym -- seemed to protect them, bless them, and sustain them. It made all the pagan nations of the world seemingly beside themselves in hatred, fear, and no explanation.
3. “Kingdoms Tottered” -- mamlakah = “reigns, dominions, rules”. Not only did this confusion and disarray affect non God-followers in general, but the very thought of a kingdom ruled by God actually shook human kingdoms and centers of economic, military, and political power to the core. Clearly David was exposing the primary radical difference between God's order of things and that which would be devised by mere human thought, power, and will.
4. “Earth Melted” – moog = “were consumed, melted down, dissolved, disappeared”. In my mind I see the indescribable confrontation between both the "Kratos", "Cosmos", and "Basilea" of this world system and the God Who created it all "by the word of His mouth". Like a snowman in Yuma in August, the entire human system that opposes God, simply melts under the fiery blast of God's voice. Just as in Genesis He spoke, "Earth, -- BE!", here we see Him speaking, "Kingdoms, -- GO! DISAPPEAR!" That's the power of the God David knew.
5. “Lord of hosts” -- yehôvâh tsaba = “eternal, self-existent one, ruler (God’s proper name and Israel’s national name) of a trained army ready and waiting for military action”. This is the second word for God that David uses in this Psalm. The first one, El Ohiym, is the eternal, sovereign, Creator of all things, but He is also the all-powerful ruler and king with a highly trained angelic army ready to act instantly at His bidding.
6. “Stronghold” -- miśgâb = “inaccessible impenetrable high-altitude refuge fortress”. When I envision this word, I again think of En Gedi or the Citadel of David (also called the "tower of David") that sat near the Jaffa Gate, a main entrance into the ancient original Jerusalem called the "city of David". At nearly every gate into ancient Jerusalem there was a tower that was generally used to stock supplies, military equipment, and soldiers who could come at a moment's notice and protect that particular entrance into the city. Even when we lived in Kyiv, Ukraine, we learned of thirteen ancient gates that led into the various walled sections of the city. At a number of them were also remnants of rooms or towers designed to protect the city.
In Jerusalem, you not only had the Tower of David, but others such as well. According to the Second Century historian, Flavius Josephus, there were three main walls around the ancient city containing as many as 90 towers by the time of Jesus. Jerusalem was much smaller in David's time, located primarily on Mount Zion. That walled area had at least four gates that we know of -- Valley, North, Water, and Fountain gates and numerous towers, all designed to protect and keep people safe from predatory animals, thieves, and foreign armies.
One more modern "stronghold" that I think of is "The Eagle's Nest" in the Bavarian Alps of Germany. Almost completely impenetrable by allied forces, it was the retreat hideaway for Adolf Hitler during World War II. Called "The Kehlsteinhaus" in German, it was commissioned in 1937 by one of Adolf Hitler's closest lieutenants, Martin Bor, as a nearly inaccessible headquarters for Hitler's regime. Nazi-constructed, the building sat atop the summit of the Kehlstein, a rocky outcrop that rises over 6,000 feet elevation above Obersalzberg near the southeast German town of Berchtesgaden. It was used exclusively by members of the Nazi Party for government and social meetings. Hitler visited the facility on at least 14 documented instances, perhaps more.
The approach road to the peak was only thirteen feet wide and bordered by nearly vertical cliffs to one side and deep canyons on the other. There were five tunnels through which the road had to go. The only other way to its perch was from a parking area at the base, through an ornate marble-lined 400+ foot long tunnel leading to an ornate elevator furnished with polished brass, Venetian mirrors and green leather. The elevator shaft was just over 407 feet from top to bottom, and twelve workers lost their lives while digging the shaft.
Now, when you consider all the different words and mental imagery used to describe God's protection over us in every situation of life, our hearts should be filled with gratitude, and our courage should rise to its highest possible level -- even in the middle of such an insane and confusing world where you and I live. For, while these illustrations about En Gedi, Jerusalem's fortresses and towers, and Hitler's lofty perch, come with them the capacity for human breeches of their safety, the refuge God provides us can never destroyed, can never be weakened, and can never be breached.
God's protection is impenetrable by any and all human and demonic efforts. So, after David describes God's Impenetrable Protection, he proceeds, then, to illustrate . . .
GOD'S PROFOUND PROOF: (46:8-9)
“Come, behold the works of the LORD, Who has wrought desolations in the earth. He makes wars to cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariots with fire.”
In addressing the final two principles or points of my letter, I want to briefly consider two key words -- "Contemplation" and "Conduct". The first is characterized by the invitation to come and take a look at the evidence, while the other is characterized by the invitation to take specific action in light of what you see.
First, contemplate.
1. “Come, behold” – halak châzâh = “come along and watch, gaze, and contemplate as it happens”. This is an invitation to examine the evidence of what God has already done in the past. In so doing, it is also an invitation to more clearly see what is happening now. Finally, it is an invitation to, based on what has happened and what is happening, anticipate what will happen in the future. God's track record in the past is what gives us confidence in the present situation, and anticipation in what He will do in the future. So, . . . . come! Take a look! Look at the evidence! Know the facts!
2. “Desolations” -- shammâh = “wonderful, startling, astonishing consternation, horror, mind-boggling, amazing”. When you and I consider the word, "desolations", we tend to think of it in terms of ruin -- the ruin of drought, or earthquakes, or some other form of destruction that left something abandoned and void of life. This is not the best understanding in this particular passage. David seems to be telling us to, "Look around! Look at all the evidence of God's presence and God's power! It is beyond comprehension!" It's not so much a condition of the circumstances as it is the attitude of the one doing the looking around. He or she cannot fathom all the evidence. He then takes time to illustrate such divine and sovereign power by pointing to one mind-blowing thing: -- the consummation of . . .
3. “Wars” -- milchâmâh = “engagements, battles, onslaughts”. David wants us to look at one example of how God's power is demonstrated -- He can even cause battles to end in victory, savagery to inexplicably stopped, and wars to come to an abrupt end. It's as if David is telling us to look at the evidence of what God has done -- He gave Joshua victory over the Amalekites. He enabled the countless Children of Israel to cross the Red Sea on dry land. He destroyed Pharaoh's army. He enabled Gideon to render terror and victory with just 300 men. He gave David and his mighty men victory after victory (II Sam 23). He caused the Syrians to flee their siege of Jerusalem in the middle of the night (II Kings 7). How many more examples do you need?
But, God didn't just reserve His cessation of of conflict to Bible days. There is also evidence throughout history of how God intervened and brought conflict to an abrupt end. Take, for example, the inexplicable turn of events during World War II when Hitler's forces, just outside the city of Moscow, turned around and left for no apparent reason. Or consider Rommel's defeat in North Africa when the allied forces had only three days of fuel and ammunition left. Remember the sudden end to Israel's Six Day War against Egypt, Syria, and Jordan in 1967. How do you explain that? How do you explain Arab casualties of some 20,000+ against fewer than 1,000 Israeli casualties?
Consider also during Israel's War of Independence in 1948 when Jordanian troops fled six Israeli soldiers with almost no ammunition. Remember during the Yom Kipur War when six Israeli tanks destroyed hundreds of Syrian tanks in the Golan Heights. Then, how can we forget the collapse of the Soviet Union not long after President Reagan exclaimed, "Mr. Gorbachev; tear down this wall!"
David told his people then to observe God's faithfulness not only in light of human failures, natural calamities, and wars all around. He tells us the same thing today. It's not because of our abilities that we can endure, withstand -- and even win -- but it is be reliability of God, our refuge and stronghold. So, it should come as no surprise that David concludes with . . .
GOD'S PASSIONATE PLEA: (46:10-11)
"Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The LORD of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our stronghold.”
Hopefully, I have not over emphasized word meanings here, but there are five remaining that I want to point to as I conclude. First, is the word, . . .
1. “Cease” -- raphah = “Stop it! Abandon! Abruptly quit!” It seems that God is not just making a plea to us; rather, it seems He is commanding us -- "Stop! Quit all this nonsense of your problems being too big for you -- or too big for Me! Stop getting all anxious, worried, and terrified at what's going on in this world! I have everything under control! Settle down! Trust Me! I will write the final chapter! I both know how it ends, and I will see that it ends My way."
He then reminds us of what God wants us to cease: --
2. “Striving” -- raphah = “acting helplessly, alone, defeated”. This word is one of desperation. We are told to stop thinking and acting as if all is lost -- as if all hope is gone -- as if we've already lost the battle. When we abide in the refuge and hiding place of God, we will never feel either helpless or hopeless. Dozens of scriptures and songs flood my mind just now as I think of the full adequacy, unrelenting faithfulness, and inexhaustible resources that God provides us for any and every situation we face.
3. “Know” – yada = “acknowledge, be assured, comprehend, agree, say the same thing, confess”. This is not just head knowledge. It's not even emotional stimulation. This kind of knowing is far greater than that. It is beyond human. It is to, through divine revelation and insight, to be absolutely convinced that what God has promised, He will do. In other words, it to agree with God about what He says regarding the situation you face.
It's easy for us to believe our banker when he gives us financial counsel or offers us financial resources. It's easy for us to believe our doctor -- even if we seek a "second opinion". It's easy to believe our friends when they tell us what they think is going to happen in a particular circumstance. But, when it comes to what God says, we more often than not are prone to be skeptical -- or even doubt Him.
We need to remember -- this world does not have adequate resources to do us in, plow us under, and defeat us. Because there is something we know that the world doesn't. In the final analysis, we know two things about God that the world doesn't believe. First, God is going to be . . .
4. “Exalted” – rum = “lifted up, put on display, made famous, honored, adored, worshiped”. Jesus Himself told us that if He is lifted up, He, like a divine magnet, will draw people to Himself. Paul told us that the day would come when "every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of the Father" (Rom 14:11; Phil 2:9-11).
Why should you and I, followers of Jesus Christ, think any differently? No matter what happens to us personally, to our nation, or to the world in general, we can live with that same assurance. In an earlier Psalm, David wrote, "Be exalted, O LORD, in Your strength; We will sing and praise Your power" (Psalm 21:13). This was an oft repeated theme through the entire Book of Psalms. In every situation, we will "know" that God is to be exalted, He is exalted, and He will be exalted -- no matter what!
So, lift him up! Make much of Him! Make Him famous! Put Him on display in your life! Honor Him above all else. Worship Him unashamedly! Be like the Psalmist who, in acknowledging the holiness and sovereignty of God, twice said, . . .
"Exalt the LORD our God And worship at His footstool; Holy is He." (Psalm 99:5).
" "Exalt the LORD our God And worship at His holy Hill; for Holy is the Lord, our God." Psalm 99:9).
Then, to cap it all off and remind us of the totality of God's omnipotence, he once again declares that God is our . . .
5. “Stronghold” -- miśgâb = “inaccessible impenetrable high-altitude refuge fortress”. Review my remarks about the "Stronghold" -- the impenetrable fortress of safety, security, and strength. Remember the Tower of David. Remember The Eagle's Nest. Remember Martin Luther's . . .
"A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing:
For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and pow’r are great, and, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.
"Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,
Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God’s own choosing:
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth, His Name, from age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.
"And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us;
The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure,
One little word shall fell him.
"That word above all earthly pow’rs, no thanks to them, abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Him Who with us sideth;
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God’s truth abideth still,
His kingdom is forever."
FINALLY:
In closing, my friend, ultimately, it’s all about God! We think it's about our circumstances. We think it's about our politics, . . or our economy, . . or our morals, . . .
But it's not. True, our world is in a mess with evil exhausting challenges. And more will come. (See Heb 12:18-29.) We have no guarantees in this world, or in anything it provides. Our guarantees are non-existent – except with God, who is always bigger than our greatest challenges.
God has promised to never leave us or abandon us. He has promised to never let us face more than we can endure through His grace and power. Not only that, but He also gives us all we need to joyfully persevere.
That means that our sole responsibilities are to . . .
+ Remember what He has done in the past.
+ Watch what He is doing right now.
+ Rejoice over what He will do in days ahead.
+ Stop worrying and let Him be God.
He, indeed, ". . . is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride."
That's my prayer for you -- and for me.
In Christ's Bond, By His Grace, and For His Kingdom,
Bob Tolliver -- Romans 1:11
"Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness,
examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so." -- Dr. Luke (Acts 17:11)
"A fire kept burning on the hearthstone of my heart, and I took up the burden of the day with fresh courage and hope." -- Charles F. McKoy
Life Unlimited Ministries
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Copyright January, 2023
"If Jesus had preached the same message that many ministers preach today, He would never have been crucified." -- Leonard Ravenhill
"The time will come when instead of shepherds feeding the sheep, the Church will have clowns entertaining the goats." -- Charles H. Spurgeon
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