Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place.
I accept this Psalm to be written by David.[1] In that case, it could not be, as Albert Barnes says, speaking of Babylon and the troubles Israel faced because of them. David would have looked at those events that set Israel apart from all others,
- Egyptian captivity
- Red Sea and Jordan’s parting
- Wilderness wandering and
- Victory in Canaan
The men riding over their heads
Is Egyptian slavery and oppression.
The fire they went through
Is the wilderness and forty years of wandering.
The water they went through
Is the Red Sea and, forty years later, the Jordan River.[2] The Red Sea gave them final victory over Egypt. The Jordan River gave them access to gain victory over Canaan.
The wealthy place
Is the Promised Land. Canaan Land was wealthy. God did help them. But even victory there did not guarantee ease.
God’s people have always been distinct as those who endure oppression, trials, and tribulations only to find victory over them and, in the end, the wealthiest of all places, heaven.
God’s plan for us today is not ease, comfort, or even peace. Today God is glorified to show Himself in us as He brings us through the hard things of the world.
Lean on the Lord. Let Him carry you through the fire, the flood, and the foes.
He will be glorified; you will be set apart, and, in the end, you’ll have heaven as your reward.
[1] Though his name is not given in it, I understand the Septuagint ascribes it to him.
[2] God used a similar miracle to both begin and end their journey.
To my readers:
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