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Psalms-7

In the Shadows: A Devotional Study on Psalm 7​

Introduction​

Psalm 7 brings us to a place of deep shadows. The psalmist cries out, "In the shadow of your wings will I make my nest” (Psalm 7:2). This verse stirs emotions of hope, yet it’s nestled among challenging passages that force us to confront the darkness that clouds our lives. Let’s explore Psalm 7, uncovering truths that we can carry out of the shadows.

Section 1: Darkness Fills the Heart (Psalm 7:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: The psalmist’s heart is heavy with sin and foreboding. There is no certitude or comfort, save for the hope in God’s faithfulness. Imagine the speaker’s senses as they deliver these words. There is no warmth, no glow. In this passage, the psalmist is awash with the darkness that threatens to consume them.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does your heart fare in the face of darkness?
  • Identify the sources that foster darkness in your life. Consider how to confront these sources and ultimately surrender them to God.

Section 2: Hope in God (Psalm 7:7-13)​

Devotional Thought: Amidst the darkness, there is the identical refrain: “Fear not...” Five times the psalmist demands, “Fear not.” It's the same gusto with which Jesus in Matt. 10:28 calls us to "fear not." Seek the comfort of God's overarching, reassuring presence.

Reflection Questions:

  • Like the psalmist, how do you maintain faith in God when the darkness is all around you?
  • List the ways that you have witnessed God's faithfulness in some area of your life, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, as this will remind you of God's infinite goodness, and renew your confidence in His ability to light the way in the shadows.

Section 3: Escaping the Shadows (Psalm 7:14-20)​

Devotional Thought: The psalmist seeks to escape the shadows- "I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever... " (Psalm 7:17). Here is the way out. The way forward! The psalmist surfaces from the darkness by shifting her focus from the oppressing circumstances to God's mercies.

Reflection Questions:

  • When mired in darkness, what are some practical ways you can avoid dwelling on the source of the shadows?
  • Consider implementing tactics that promote reflection on God's mercies - praying, reading scripture, meditating, singing songs of praise or participating in acts of service.

Conclusion:​

As we leave Psalm 7, we remember that everyone stares, at different points of their lives, into vast, shadowy crevices. Amidst the darkness, God’s faithfulness guides us, through the psalmist's hope we find comfort and the strength to sing of His mercies forevermore. May the Word remind us that even in the darkest of times, there is hope.