Journal Ps 124-125 (all references are from the ESV; changes in punctuation are mine)
Scripture: “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved but abides forever…
As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore…” Ps 125:1-2
Observation: Two verses, both truths. One is a constant, the other contains a variable.
Analysis: This was a surprise to see.
I wonder if the psalmist wrote these in this order on purpose as a dichotomy, or at least pointing out the trustworthiness of the Lord God versus man’s unreliability.
Seriously: the OT is full of stories, observations, prophecies, even songs about the people of Israel, not losing trust in God, but abandoning it.
I am getting into the thesaurus on the computer lately. Synonyms for abandoning: deserting, leaving, vacating, forsaking…even the phrase “walking out on” is in there.
Does God surround His people? Yes, and that in an unchangeable way. He is always there, never leaving or forsaking his people.
Ah, but does man? Looking into the mirror intently I know that my tendency is to forget.
So, God is Constant, unchangeable. Unchangeable is part of His eternal character.
Man? I am as changeable as my socks. Malleable is my middle name.
Point? As I have been writing lately, actively trusting the Lord God is an effort, to be diligently, meticulously engaged in. This is not referencing the doctrine of Justification, justifying myself for salvation, canceling Grace, but Sanctification—that process (engaged with the Holy Spirit) to deliberately walk worthy of the Gospel; that worthiness to which I have been called to.
Ears to hear? Then hear what the Spirit is saying.
Prayer: Sometimes I can say too much. Today is one of those days, Father.
Let the mystery of Your Word bring clarity to my mind and heart.
Cause revival, AMEN.