October 7
________________________________________RUNNING TO GOD FOR COMFORT IN EVIL TIMES
O LORD, God of vengeance,
God of vengeance, shine forth!
2 Rise up, O Judge of the earth,
Render recompense to the proud.
3 How long shall the wicked, O LORD,
How long shall the wicked exult?
4 They pour forth words, they speak arrogantly;
All who do wickedness vaunt themselves.
5 They crush Your people, O LORD,
And afflict Your heritage.
6 They slay the widow and the stranger
And murder the orphans.
7 They have said, “The LORD does not see,
Nor does the God of Jacob pay heed.” – Psalm 94:1-7
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Psalm 94 is a community lament written for a time when the wicked not only revel (v3) but also oppress the people (v5-6). This psalm was written to plead God to act on the evil being done to the people. They ask God for protection from the wickedness they are experiencing.
It is so refreshing to hear the people humbly run to God like a little child, reporting to the parent about what is going on in her/his life. Even though the parent probably knows already the things happening, it is still good to hear the child express trust and dependence. It manifests a closeness, a bond between the child and parent. It is like this with us and God. We need to run to God for protection, for provision and for guidance just like a child would. Although human mind is limited like a child, God loves the act of running to Him for help. It shows closeness and intimacy. It reveals a relationship that is borne out of love.
Verses 3-7 enumerates what people are experiencing and reveals a hope for God to act on such evil deeds in verse 3. Of course, God knows everything. The act of running to Him in times of distress and oppression is a good sign that the people are very much connected to their God. It exhibits faithfulness as well.
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REFLECTION
• Why is it important to run to God for comfort in times of trouble and oppression?