A Summary Of Normal Christianity Found In The Psalms

By Carolyn Stewart


There is something unique about each book of the bible and the areas it addresses in Christian living. The proposals in Psalms are unique yet reflect the normal life of a Christian. The normal Christianity found in the psalms takes a poetic angle but captures all challenges and triumphs of a normal human being. There are excellent reflections on humility, praise, gratitude, adherence to the law, etc until a person achieves a sanctified life.

The first chapter presents the best introduction to Christianity with an affirmation that following the law comes with its share of rewards. Blessed is he who follows the law and avoids the paths of the wicked. To follow that, you must constantly read and reflect on it. Prosperity is the reward you get but the wicked will perish.

Chapter 23 is one of the most popular and recited prayers of surrender. It begins with recognition of the Lord as a shepherd who provides all a Christian needs. This is a story of a person who has enjoyed the goodness of God. He eats his fill despite the machinations of enemies. Beyond that, he has the promise of eternal life.

The beginning of chapter 121 is a cry but the end is exaltation. At the beginning, one wonders who will come to his rescue. However, at the end, the answer is God, the Mighty one who created heaven and earth. David knows that his protection or help can only come from He who does not sleep or slumber. He also will never abandon him or let his finger hit the stone.

Christians sometimes feel abandoned or lost in the world. This is the basis of chapter 42 which equates the desire to be one with God to that of a deer panting for cool waters. The psalmist even reminisces days he used to feel close to God to the point of leading praises in the temple. It is a cry for rescue, giving Christians the right words to cry to God when that time comes.

The righteous sometimes envy the perceived quick and shiny victories of evil doers. This is perfectly captured by chapter 37. God is quick to remind the envious to be patient and watch the evil doers being destroyed. In his words, this prosperity fades instantly like grass fire. The patient follower of the law is rewarded with the earth as his inheritance.

Is it possible to hide from the all knowing omnipresent God? Chapter 139 reveals a God to whom man can hide nothing. This is a God who has searched the soul of man and knows his going in and coming out. The chapter is an exaltation of the power of God to see everywhere including the heart of human beings. No matter how far you hide, it is impossible to hide from God.

All the teachings and reflections a Christian would like to live a holistic life can be found in the Psalms. The book encompasses a cocktail of exaltation, praise, defiance, submission, etc. The message is put in such a simplistic and poetic tone that makes it easy to deceiver the lessons and thus live a fulfilling life.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment