What Can the Righteous Do?
Today’s Text:
Psalm 11 (WEB) — For the Chief Musician. By David. 1 In Yahweh, I take refuge. How can you say to my soul, “Flee as a bird to your mountain”? 2 For, behold, the wicked bend their bows. They set their arrows on the strings, that they may shoot in darkness at the upright in heart. 3 If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do? 4 Yahweh is in his holy temple. Yahweh is on his throne in heaven. His eyes observe. His eyes examine the children of men. 5 Yahweh examines the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and him who loves violence. 6 On the wicked he will rain blazing coals; fire, sulfur, and scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup. 7 For Yahweh is righteous. He loves righteousness. The upright shall see his face.
1. What is happening in this passage?
When challenged and confronted by evildoers, the psalmist reminds us that while the righteous cannot take matters into their own hands, the Lord will take vengeance.
2. What is God revealing about humanity?
Humans are either wicked and seek evil against the righteous and will face judgment, or they are righteous and will find peace in God by seeing His face.
3. What is God revealing about Himself?
God is enthroned on high, seeing and judging all people. He punishes evil and brings justice for the oppressed righteous.
4. How should our lives change?
When challenged and confronted with evil, instead of feeling the need to lash out and take vengeance, we must realize that we are powerless, but God sees all our struggles and will show His face to us and take vengeance on our behalf. Trust God to deal with evil.
