A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 38

Text: Psalm 11

THE ULTIMATE FATE OF THE WICKED

What would God do to the unrepentant wicked? Let us take note of what the psalmist wrote.

"Upon the wicked He will rain coals;
Fire and brimstone and a burning wind
Shall be the portion of their cup."
Psalm 11:6

No matter how the wicked may try to intimidate us, we need never feel afraid! Why should there be fear of people who would be judged and condemned by the Lord?

1. Raining Coals

We have heard of the phrase, "raining cats and dogs." Perhaps we have not heard of the idea of "raining coals." What an ominous thought! Raining coals? How disastrous that would be for the farmers! Everything he has found be destroyed! Farmers need both the former and latter rain for their crops to succeed. What if there are severe hailstorms instead? What destruction that would be!

2. Brimstone and a burning wind

We have a further description of what could happen to the unrepentant wicked! God could cause natural disasters to take place. He could also bring about supernatural acts of judgment on the wicked! Why should we fear the hapless wicked?

3. The portion of their cup

The wicked cannot hope to prevail! The portion of their cup has already been determined! God has apportioned disasters to fall upon the unrepentant wicked! Should we fear the wicked who are really such weaklings before the Lord?

FINDING FRESH STRENGTH AND ENCOURAGEMENT

We must find fresh strength and encouragement in the spiritual battle against wickedness. The wicked would stoop to the lowest level to intimidate the righteous. We need to find fresh strength and courage in these ongoing spiritual battles.

"For the Lord is righteous,
He loves righteousness;
His countenance beholds the upright."
Psalm 11:7

1. The Righteous Nature of God

What is God's Essence? What is His nature? The word "righteousness" well describes Him! Since He is righteous, He cannot and will not allow wickedness to prevail. He will actively oppose evil at all times!

2. God's Commitment to the Upright

God is looking after His own. With His countenance He beholds them. By His righteous right hand He will uphold the righteous who trust in Him! Let strength return!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~