Psalms Streak: A Daily Devotional in the PsalmsSample

Don't Get Swallowed Alive

Think over the past twelve months. Have you experienced something that worried you? Have you felt scared? Has something happened that made you sad? Have you experienced conflict or unfairness or hopelessness? Chances are you can think of at least one experience in the last year; but if you can't, can you think of someone you know who has?

We don't have the background for exactly what happened in Psalm 124, but it is clear that the Israelites felt at least one of the emotions listed above. The Psalm is a declaration of praise to our God who saved them. Here's the thing: the psalmist DIDN'T say that they walked away unhurt or unbruised or unaffected. He only writes that they weren't engulfed or swept away or torn to pieces. Read Psalm 124:2 again: “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side when men rose up against us, then they would have quickly swallowed us alive.” Hard things have come and will continue to come. But if you are a follower of Christ, God is on your side and He will not let you be swallowed alive.

GO DEEP: Sit for a moment and reflect on some of the hardest moments you have experienced in the past twelve months. Talk to God about them. What happened? Can you recognise where God was in those situations? What might have happened if God hadn't been on your side? Do you feel like you can proclaim verses 2 and 3? If so, do it! If not, ask God to continue to show you where He is in the hard times.

BE BOLD: Who needs to hear this? Who could you share it with?