Study 57

Text: Psalm 18

GOD'S ACT OF DELIVERANCE

With a great sense of awe and trepidation, the psalmist David described how God would come to the rescue of those who call upon Him for help!

"The LORD thundered from heaven,
And the Most High uttered His voice,
Hailstones and coals of fire.
He sent out His arrows and scattered the foe.
Lightnings in abundance, and He vanquished them."
Psalm 18:13-14

1. The awesome power of God

Three "weapons" of God were described!

a) Hailstones

b) Coals of Fire

c) Lightnings

These could well refer to God making use of the elements to discomfit the wicked!

2. Vanquishing of enemies

The outcome of the battle between God and the wicked is a foregone conclusion! All enemies of God would be vanquished! What comfort we must draw from appreciating this glorious truth!

GOD'S DELIVERANCE APPLIED PERSONALLY

The psalmist David went on to dwell on how this truth was applied in his life personally.

"He sent from above, He took me;
He drew me out of many waters
He delivered me from my strong enemy,
From those who hated me,
For they were too strong for me."
Psalm 18:16-17

God's truth was not abstract to David! His promise of deliverance was greatly treasured in the most personal way (Look at the numerous references David made to himself).

Carefully, David employed four powerful verbs to describe how God saved him from the wicked plans of his enemies. God SENT, TOOK, DREW OUT, and DELIVERED… These words took on even greater significance for David as he meditated on how God helped him in his hour of need! Let us draw much encouragement from David's example of faith and trust in the Lord!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~

Released 9th January 2005, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore