Psalm 131

Humility and contentment.

David is not proud or arrogant, self seeking or puffed up.
He is not scheming and full of self laid plans for success.
He is not wallowing in things too difficult to comprehend.

But instead, he rests he rests in the Lord.

Rather than a prideful boasting of where he has come in life, this is
an affirmation of quiet, sure trust in the steadfast love of God.
A complete trust in Him equals rest in this life.
There is no need to worry about the future, for He will provide what we need.
There is no need to fear....."what can man do to me?" (Ps 56:11, Ps118:6, Heb. 13:6)
There is no need to struggle with concepts too difficult to understand.
There is no need to elevate self if one understands his place before God in Christ.

Indeed when one knows the Lord, and fears Him (recall Psalm 128:1) he will indeed
be blessed.  Blessed with all he needs in life, and with peace and contentment.  What
once mattered, won't anymore.

Resting in the Lord involve a complete trust like that of a baby to his mother.....dependent
on her for all things.....life, food, milk, protection.  David's trust in the Lord is that
complete.

I think of how our society encourages self-help and motivation.  "Be all you can be,",
set goals and put your mind to it and you can achieve anything.  Lies.   All lies.  There will
be no contentment in life without a humble trust in our Father.

I referenced several other verses....
Proverbs 3:5-8. Lean not to your own understanding.....He will make paths straight,
              and bring healing and refreshment.
Ecclesiastes 12:12-14 Much study is wearisome to the soul, but the whole duty of
              man is to fear God and do His commandments.
Romans 12:16  do not be haughty or wise in your own sight.
II Peter 1:3.   He gives us all we need for life and godliness.


At times, I think that I, like David, have found that place of peace and contentment, trusting
in the Lord for all things.   But how quickly my heart grows proud.  Even in doing what is
right, sin rears it's ugly head and corrupts it.  Daily I must place my trust in him, for I fear
the future.  How will I live?  Who will care for me?  My retirement will be meager at best, and
I have no savings for the future.  Will I be able to be involved with my children and their families like I long to be?  What if I lose my job, or am unable to work?

Truly my 'spirit is willing but the flesh is weak."

Once again, thankful that He understands my frame.  And that He is faithful, and true.  He
will never leave me or forsake me.  He will be my provider and sustainer.  Indeed He is my
substance.