Intro: The other day my husband, John, and I were laughing about his transparency; I usually know what John is thinking by his facial expressions. When John plays cards or dominoes with the family, we can all read his next move. He just cannot hide his thoughts or plans. If he is getting ready to go out and win the round or game, we all know it. Transparency may not be great if you are serious about competition, but it is a sweet fragrance before the Lord in spiritual matters.
In our passage today, David is entirely transparent in his song of prayer before the Lord. He cries out to God by saying exactly what he is thinking. He hates evil and asks God to deal justly with it because he is tired of the wicked getting away with their deeds. David wants God to give those who do evil a taste of their own wickedness. He doesn’t try to hide what is going on inside his head, he knows God is already aware. David is transparent and honest; therefore, the Lord ministers grace to him.
We know God will deal with evil one day; however, we do not know when that will be. Therefore, in His goodness, God moves to make us strong in the midst of the world’s mess. The Lord encourages us to press on as He fills us with joy. Trust will always be a necessary part of our faith while we live in this fallen world; so, be transparent with the Lord in your prayers and know He will find a way to lift your head, touch your heart with confidence, and fill your soul with joy. He is the Savior and His grace is always enough!
Psalm 28 NLT
1
I pray to you, O Lord, my rock.
Do not turn a deaf ear to me.
For if you are silent,
I might as well give up and die.
2
Listen to my prayer for mercy
as I cry out to you for help,
as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary.
3
Do not drag me away with the wicked—
with those who do evil—
those who speak friendly words to their neighbors
while planning evil in their hearts.
4
Give them the punishment they so richly deserve!
Measure it out in proportion to their wickedness.
Pay them back for all their evil deeds!
Give them a taste of what they have done to others.
5
They care nothing for what the Lord has done
or for what his hands have made.
So he will tear them down,
and they will never be rebuilt!
6
Praise the Lord!
For he has heard my cry for mercy.
7
The Lord is my strength and shield.
I trust him with all my heart.
He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.
I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.
8
The Lord gives his people strength.
He is a safe fortress for his anointed king.
9
Save your people!
Bless Israel, your special possession.
Lead them like a shepherd,
and carry them in your arms forever.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for welcoming us to your throne of grace and inviting us to be transparent with you. Sometimes it is hard to watch evil prevail, but we know you are stronger and we trust your promise to one day bring everything under your authority. As we press on in faith, please strengthen us and fill us with joy. In Jesus’ name. Amen.