This poem begins with two strong categorical declarations affirming God’s good feeling
toward human beings.
First, the poet states: "The righteous (Godly) belong to God." This statement reflects the
picture in the Garden of Eden. God created man and woman to His likeness. And the
couple lived in fellowship with the Creator. Sometime later, however, the pair sinned against
God and were excommunicated. But God made provisions to restore the lost association.
Throughout the Old and New Testaments, the biblical writers paint many portraits of the fall
and restoration of humans to good relations with God.
Second, the psalmist affirms that God hears the prayers of the Godly. Prayer is
conversation between God and the Godly in the manner of the chats existing between good
parents and their children and good friends among themselves.
Then, the writer issues five imperatives concerning the behavior of the Godly
1. The psalmist urges the Godly as follows: "Be angry over all injustices." The Godly should
oppose any human action intended to hurt others. The Godly are called by the Creator to
intervene in healing humanity directly and indirectly. Much can be done on the scene where
injustices are committed. And much can be done advocating for the needy before public
officials and institutions. But it is important not to go too far and end up sinning against the
Lord and others. Often, protesters hurt others verbally and even physically in their zeal.
Exercising self-control is most important while working on a cause.
2. The psalmist advices the Godly to plan their actions carefully. My father advised me
many times: “Consult it with your pillow.” "Sleep on it" is a popular suggestion to people
having to make important decisions. The psalmist said it this way: “Ponder it on your beds,
and be silent.” And when taking action, guard against overdoing it. This is important to be
cautious while intervening on behalf of the needy. Recklessness always produces an
adverse effect.
3. The Psalmist further counsels the Godly to wait for the Lord in silence. I admit, waiting for
the Lord to act is difficult. I have lost many blessings for not waiting sufficiently for the Lord
to act. The rule should be: when you have waited enough, wait some more.
4. Now, the psalmist urges the Godly to worship the Lord. Worship are private and public
acts of devotion to God. Commune with God alone, at home or at the workplace. And join
the worship community to express thanksgivings to God along with others
5. Finally, the poet simply says: "Put your trust in the Lord." Because we all have been
deceived many times by others, trusting is difficult. But the trust the psalmist points out is in
God, not others. If we keep in mind that God is our Creator, Sustainer and Savior, trusting
Him becomes easier.
Prayer:
God, our most gracious father, may our actions always be consistent with your expectations
from us, as we serve you through serving the needy. May our advocacy on behalf of others
bring you honor. May our trust in
you be complete. Amen
Answer me when I call, O God of my right!
You gave me room when I was in distress.
Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer.
But know that the LORD has set apart the faithful for
himself;
the LORD hears when I call to him.
When you are disturbed, do not sin;
ponder it on your beds, and be silent.
Offer right sacrifices,
and put your trust in the LORD
Let the light of your face shine on us, O LORD!
You have put gladness in my heart more
than when their grain and wine abound.
I will both lie down and sleep in peace;
for you alone, O LORD, make me lie down in safety.
Psalm 4:1, 3, 4-5, 6b.
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