S) "6 Too long has my soul had its dwelling
With those who hate peace.
7 I am for peace, but when I speak,
They are for war."
Psalm 120:6-7 (NASB)
O) In this song of ascents, lying lips are the source of anguish for the singer. It is unclear if these were the results political scheming, or some kind of personal attack on character, but the deceit is likened to sharp arrows, and it caused much woe. In the end of this song (which these verses are), there is no real closure, as there typically is with Psalms. In this case, there is a lingering restlessness. There is an open-ended form to this, because the problem was not resolved. The most compelling thing about these last two verses, to me, is the emphasis on time. "Too long" gives the impression that some short time is bearable. Conflict, lies, or opposing views can be worked out, resolving through discussion or negotiation. But when it drags on and on, without any progress, it is simply exhausting.
A) As much as anything, this warns me to be careful about engaging in confrontation. There are times when discussions are fruitful, but when it becomes clear that the other person(s) is not interested in peaceful resolution, I must be careful not to stay too long. When I have no recourse, then wisdom will have me seek God for refuge, sooner than later.
P) Father, You are the God of peace. I know that I should, as much as it depends on me, live at peace with others. I also know that there will always be people who simply hate peace. Please give me the discernment and discipline to recognize when I have engaged too long. Guide me resolve conflict according to Your will, and to seek refuge in You, when conflicts persist. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment