Humility

Some of the words used by David in this psalm lead us to believe that it was written when his mind was troubled, and he was seeking reassurance from God. Words such as “stronghold” (verse 9) and “avenges” (verse 12) indicate an unsettled state of affairs both in his mind and in the nation. Perhaps the welfare of David’s people is a concern, for he speaks also of the oppressed and afflicted. David feels that humanity is at fault, saying in verse 15 that the nations have made the pit that they are in. Creation’s crown, humanity, has forgotten humility.

We move to today. Are things any different? The oppressed are still with us; seemingly more than ever, they and the poor need people to speak for them.

The psalm ends on a humbling note. Witness David’s contention that perhaps the governance of nations is too important to be left to humanity. Or, perhaps David is reminding the nations that only in their humanity can they help take care of the downtrodden. A vote of confidence for proper human attitudes, perhaps? After all, is not humility an attitude pleasing to our Lord? Only in humility does humanity work best.

O Lord, keep us humble for it is only then that we can do work pleasing to you. Amen. — AEA