Deus Misereatur

(I presented a version of this 9 July 2017 at Heritage Presbyterian Church; and again on 19 July 2017 at the Capitol Bible Forum, Oklahoma State Capitol) God is For Us: Psalm 56 ( Romans 8.31-39 )   I have often used this passage and these thoughts when talking about Baptism. Now that may startle you a bit since the only water mentioned are the tears of David. But if you’ll hold on tight I think you may see how I get there. The Pressure is Constant (1, 2, and 5): “ all day long ”. The Pressure is Fierce (1-2, 5-7): “ tramples on me….an attacker oppresses me ” (1); “ My enemies trample on me….many attack me proudly ” (2); “ injure my cause….thoughts are against me for evil ” (5); “ stir up strife…lurk…watch my steps….waited for my life ” (6). Fierce Response (7). Faith-Filled Prayer in the Pressure (1a; 3-4, 8-11): “Faith is seen here as a deliberate act, in defiance of one’s emotional state” Derek Kidner; v. 8-11. *** v.9 “This I know that God is for me…” – ...

O God, Most High, to you all nations are as a drop in a bucket, and are counted as the small dust on the scales. Before you all nations are as nothing, and are counted as less than nothing and emptiness (Isaiah 40.15-17):  we beseech you to preside over all the actions, plans and associations in our land, steering leaders and citizens alike to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly before you in truth (Micah 6.8). And look compassionately on those families in our country who have lost loved ones this last week in plane crashes and through violence. Smile upon the State of Oklahoma, continue to furnish us with moderate rains and showers as we need; grant us greater economic stability; make our crops, cattle, and honest industry to be bountiful; strengthen our education; and bring upon our neighborhoods genuine neighborliness. We remember before you the nations of this world and their leaders, to include King Carl XVI of Sweden; President Doris Leuthard of Switzerland...