November 12
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PSALM 74 ARISE AND DEFEND YOUR CAUSE O GOD
18 Remember this, O LORD, how the enemy scoffs,
and a foolish people reviles your name.
19 Do not deliver the soul of your dove to the wild beasts;
do not forget the life of your poor forever.
20 Have regard for the covenant,
for the dark places of the land are full of the habitations of violence.
21 Let not the downtrodden turn back in shame;
let the poor and needy praise your name.
22 Arise, O God, defend your cause;
remember how the foolish scoff at you all the day!
23 Do not forget the clamor of your foes,
the uproar of those who rise against you, which goes up continually!
– Psalm 74:18-23
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A poem inspired by this psalm by ILMA
Do not be silent O Lord, we are surrounded by violence
The enemy continue to rise up against your people constantly
Remember your covenant with them and defend your cause
Do not forget the weak, the poor and the oppressed
You promised to free them and provide protection
We count on your deliverance and salvation.
Do not deliver your people to the wicked
Especially those who are vulnerable and defenseless
Arise and defend your cause O Lord, we can’t shield ourselves
We will be defeated if you do not come to our aide and be our fortress
Let us not lose hope when we become weak, but instead lean on you more
Equip us with strength and endurance to bear the suffering in this world.
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REFLECTION
• What was the psalmist lamenting over here and why does he ask God to arise and defend his cause?