Day 209: Psalms 50-52; Acts 27:1-26

"...you thought I was just like you." (Psalm 50:21, CSB)

Do words or phrases ever catch your attention in your through-the-Bible reading? Today, the words above really struck me. The silence of God (re-read the Psalm) does not infer His approval of evil behavior, nor does it indicate His lack of awareness of the evil intent of the hearts of people, and it especially does not prove His failure to judge those who embrace sin wholly while they pretend to be walking in His way. Our God is a consuming fire (Psalm 50:3; Hebrews 12:29), when He speaks, 'the Mighty One' will be heard by all, and the universe will bear witness to His presence, power, and authority to judge...His radiant glory will be undeniable. Yes, the silence of God is not the sign that anything misses His attention...so do not be deceived (Galatians 6:7), even every idle word spoken will pass the judgment of heaven (Matthew 12:36).

Do not, however, focus on the fear of judgment, but rather on the offer of grace (not cheap grace that does not call for transformation). God says: "Call on me in a day of trouble; I will rescue you, and you will honor me" (Psalm 50:15, CSB). You noticed the, 'and you will honor me.' Look at the last verse: "Whoever offers a thanksgiving sacrifice honors me, and whoever orders his conduct,
I will show him the salvation of God" (Psalm 50:23, CSB). God is all about relationship...for Him it is very personal. The King James says, "...and to Him that ordereth his conversation aright...", which in 1611 meant 'orders his conduct/way of life'. In this sense, I like that.  There is something about keeping that conversation fresh that keeps the conduct in its rightful place. Our worship, personal and corporate, when offered from hearts surrendered in reverence and awe, leads us to a life that honors God, and that God will honor in the end. So, embrace grace, worship God, and live for Jesus!