January 23
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PSALM 106
40 Then the anger of the LORD was kindled against his people,
and he abhorred his heritage;41 he gave them into the hand of the nations,
so that those who hated them ruled over them.42 Their enemies oppressed them,
and they were brought into subjection under their power.
43 Many times he delivered them, but they were rebellious in their purposes
and were brought low through their iniquity.
44 Nevertheless, he looked upon their distress, when he heard their cry.
45 For their sake he remembered his covenant,
and relented according to the abundance of his steadfast love.
46 He caused them to be pitied by all those who held them captive.
47 Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the nations,
that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise.
48 Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting!
And let all the people say, “Amen! ”Praise the LORD! – Psalm 106:40-48
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PSALM 106 WHEN GOD’S ANGER IS KINDLED
A poem inspired by this psalm by ILMA
When the anger of the Lord is provoked, watch out! It will bear consequences
Do not test the Lord your God; he will not tolerate evil; he disciplines whom he loves
When the Israelites continued to defy his laws, the Lord gave them to the nations
Despite all of God’s provision and deliverance, they continued to be rebellious
When God’s anger is kindled, he is still faithful, he will keep his promises
He is full of love and mercy and he listens to his people’s pleadings
Even at their most detestable acts, the Lord is still compassionate
God is love, he will not go against his nature, he will be empathetic
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength
Do not let your cravings and nature get in the way of your love for him
When God’s anger is kindled, you will experience pain and suffering
Do not let your sinful nature prevail, worship the Lord who is your Redeemer.
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REFLECTION
• Why shouldn’t we allow God’s anger to be kindled according to this psalm?