This is a song of ascent again as a traveler makes his way towards Jerusalem to worship. However, as you read it, you can see a shift in the way it is written. It is definitely written in the form of a proverb as if King Solomon wrote it. In fact, he did write it. Solomon wrote Psalm 72 and Psalm 127. Let’s take a look this morning and see what wisdom he shares with us.
Don’t leave God out of your plans
He begins by telling us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain” (v.1) I realize we have so many people who go to work every day and work hard. They do what they’re told to do and accomplish great things at work. Sometimes awards and rewards are given. But Solomon tells us that doing work apart from God’s involvement is useless. If you think about it, all that we do should be to honor God. If we do things that don’t, we’ve failed to tap into the power we need to be successful in God’s eyes and economy.
Don’t leave God out of your protection
He goes on to write about the protection God provides. Every night I pray for God’s protection. You know why? Because when I sleep, I don’t know what’s going on. I don’t know who’s trying to break into my car or steal something or even break into my house. I ask God to protect my family while I sleep.
I remember not too long ago, there was a massive storm that went through our neighborhood. I woke up when I heard the thunder and stayed up until the storm passed. But, If I failed to trust God through it, I was simply up in vain. Solomon tells us, “Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain” (v.1).
Don’t leave God out of your anxiety
Solomon quickly moves towards our anxiety. We wake up early and go to bed late and live lives full of anxiety. Notice in verse 2 what God promises to those who place their trust in Him. He says, “He gives to his beloved sleep” (v.2). He places a sense of rest in our hearts. He calms our spirit. He provides grace in the midst of our anxiety.
I know many of us struggle with anxiety. Solomon tells us in this Psalm to remember God in all of that and ask Him to give you rest from your anxiety. Regardless of the anxiety issues you face, God can help you.
Don’t leave God out of His providence with children
Everyone doesn’t have the opportunity to have children. Some are unable, and some are unwilling. Either way, we can learn from this Psalm that God is providentially over children given to parents. “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward” (v.3).
The sons help to provide defense for the family as they grow. I think the critical thing to consider is that God is active in the creative process and the growing process with children. Don’t leave God out of your family as you grow together.
Don’t leave God out
As you live your day today, it is important to remember that God wants to be intimately involved in every area. His providence and care for you are legitimate. He really does care. He really does love. He really does provide for you. Trust Him to do what He does and trust Him with your work, your anxiety, your children, and everything you seem to struggle with each day. He will come through for you in miraculous ways.
Some Questions…
- How can you ask God to help you today as your work?
- How does your anxiety affect you? What does it cause you to neglect?
- Pray today that God will help you overcome those issues that tend to “freeze” you in relationships and work.