What is unique about this picture is that it is a Christian gathering of Malawi Chiefs and their assistants and associates. Historically, Chiefs have not been open to Christianity. Instead they were steeped in witchcraft and oppression. This gathering of 2000 people in 2016 represents a spiritual turnaround of the leadership in Malawi.

Are you happy or sad? Make up your mind!

I Samuel 23:15-29; Psalms 3&4

Yesterday we saw David obey God’s voice and rescue the city of Keilah from the Philistines. His men warned against it, most likely because it would bring attention to them. Well it did. Saul learned of their whereabouts and organized his soldiers to pursue David and his 600 men. David fled into the nearby mountains. Vs 26 says “and David and his men were hurrying to get away from Saul, for Saul and his men were surrounding David and his men to seize them.” As Saul was closing in, a messenger came to Saul and told him the Philistines were raiding the land. So, Saul was forced to let David go and tend to the Philistines.

David is “all over the place”

In this context, it seems David penned Psalms 3&4. “O Lord, how my adversaries have increased. Many are rising up against me. Many are saying of my soul, there is no deliverance for him in God,” 3:1. These two Psalms are a blend of David’s despair & oppression mixed with praise, peace and prayer. David is literally “all over the place” emotionally and spiritually. Just how real is that to us? Honestly? Very, very real. In times of true anguish and distress, those of us who follow after God, find ourselves vacillating between lament and confidence.  Sometimes our attention is focused on our problems – the here and now of the difficulties of our earthly lives. “O sons of men, how long will my honor become a reproach…?” Psalms 4:2. These are usually followed with pleading to God for help. “Arise O God and save me, O my God,” 3:7. Then we are empowered with confidence and faith. “But you O, Lord are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head.” And then a short time later, the cycle repeats itself.  In times of despair, we also are “all over the place.” But you know, that’s OK. However, one should be cautious if one lives extended times in the despair phase. For what we see in these Psalms is that David usually goes down deep in honest despair, but he comes to his senses quickly and acknowledges God’s grace, power and sovereignty.  Be cautious if you wallow in oppression for extended times.

Despair is OK???

There is power in the encouragement of Christian fellowship and in the deep reading and meditating of God’s Word. Reminds me of last Sunday walking into church. Emotionally (not even sure why) I felt heavy and thought to myself, I don’t feel like going to church. Within five minutes of worship, my heart melted and I sensed the grace of God all over me. Despair is Ok. It’s life. However, put yourself in a place where God can lift you up and out of it and remind you of ALL THAT HE IS! Amen.