PSALM 31:4-5

Keep me free from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge.  Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, Lord, my faithful God.

TO PONDER

What trap? What’s the psalmist talking about here? 

Hidden traps, that will often appear. Trap such as temptation. Now, it’s not a sin to be tempted, but falling to the temptation is where we can get caught.  

So we ask God to watch over us in everything we do. To keep an eye out for the things we’ll miss. To remind us that he’s in control anyway, despite us often forgetting or not caring.    

And do you recognize the last part of the verse? Where have you heard that? ‘Into your hands I commit my spirit’…

Look at the readings for Good Friday, and the Words Jesus says on the cross. It’s some of his final words on earth, before the great awakening of Easter Sunday morning. It’s some end words before death is defeated forever. It’s the last bit before life begins again. 

Our reading today is a plea for God to keep watching over our lives, whilst being reminded that we have a faithful God, and he will turn up – no matter what our circumstances.       

PRAYER: Thank you, God, for turning up. Give us a watchful eye to avoid those things which get in the way of walking with you. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.   

Today's devotion written by Mark Simpfendorfer, LifeWay Epping