Set Apart - By Chris Barnes

Text: Psalm 4

OBSERVE: Psalm 4 commences with a prayer of David in which we witness David pleading for God’s grace. This is immediately followed by David addressing his enemies; pleading with them to resist lies and to halt their rebellion against God. David’s alternative suggestion is that they search their hearts and trust in the Lord. Even with all of the adversity against him; David’s heart remains full of joy. The Psalm ends with David testifying to the peace that he has by dwelling in the safety of the Lord.

INTERPRET: This Psalm begins with an appeal from David to God. Following this appeal is another appeal to his enemies; to resist the emptiness of lies. David is appealing to them that they need to understand that the Lord has chosen him as king and therefore his prayers will be heard. Some believe that this Psalm rises from the occasion referred to in Psalm 3:1; where David was surrounded by his enemies who supported his rebellious son Absalom.

In Psalm 4; we witness David giving wise spiritual counsel. He counselled Absalom’s followers to stop listening to Absalom’s lies and to know that the Lord has set David apart for the role of Israel’s king. In addition, David advises his own followers to avoid sinning, to offer sacrifices to the Lord, and to trust in the Lord.

APPLICATION: David knew that his righteousness came from God and not from himself. This is why David is calling upon the God who makes him righteous. David also knew that he was set apart for the service of God; being chosen to be king of Israel.

As believers in Christ; we too have been set apart as children of God. This means that we are set apart for special service to God; that we are set apart for greater purity and that we are set apart to enjoy a wonderful relationship with our Heavenly Father. As children of God; we are to serve in the role we are called to, we are to shine light into the darkness and we are to embrace the incredible gift of our relationship with our Heavenly Father. When we are set apart in these ways; we will have our hearts filled with joy and will find rest just like David did.

REFLECTION: Are you glorifying God with how you serve and how you live?

PRAYER: O Lord Jesus, You are my God. You are my Savior and my Lord. I desire to be set apart for your glory, a light in the darkness, the sweet aroma of Christ for all I encounter along the way. AMEN. 

SONG: Psalm 4