A Psalm a Day Keeps Satan Away: Psalm 27

Strong and Courageous

Psalm 27

In our reflections we have talked about passages of orientation/re-orientation towards YHWH which affirm our trust and confidence in G-d, and we have talked about passages of disorientation which describe times of trouble and suffering (and these passages often show the psalmist shouting at G-d and shaking his fist at G-d).  We have also noted that in the psalms that are categorized as laments (disorientation), the psalm always ends (with one notable exception which we will address in time) with a statement of confidence and trust in G-d.

Psalm 27 is a lament psalm.  But it is striking that the declaration of affirmation, trust and confidence (v.1-6)  comes BEFORE the complaint (v.7-12).  Is this purposeful or coincidental?  Most scholars think this psalm was originally two distinct literary pieces stitched together.  Thus, it is a purposeful positioning.  But why?

Here is my take:  a life of orientation/re-orientation towards G-d doesn’t guarantee a life free of difficulty and suffering.  Remember, this “gig” called Christianity ain’t for the faint of heart!  A person who has been through trials and tribulations and comes out the other side leaning into G-d is able to answer the theological question of verse 1:  “If G-d is my light and salvation, whom shall I fear?”  Through experience, we know before the next trial, that G-d is with us!

So, when the storm comes once again, we are ready for it.  We have been tempered by previous fires.  We have spent time in the house of YHWH seeking to gaze upon the beauty of His face (v.4), we have sought the community of faith, we have been disciplined through daily contemplation of His Word.  Only then can we ask and answer the question, “The LORD is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?” (v.2)

The psalm ends in v. 14 with “be strong and courageous, “ a final declaration of confidence and an admonition to the community. In Hebrew, the admonition is חֲ֭זַק וְיַאֲמֵ֣ץ  ‘kha-ZAHK ve’e-MATZ.’ This phrase occurs here in Psalm 27 and also three times in the book of Joshua (Joshua 1: 6-9). Three times G-d implores Joshua and the people of Israel to brace for the coming hardships as they enter the Promised Land after forty years of wandering the desert. Over the millennia this phrase has become a Jewish “battle cry.” Every Sabbath, as Jewish worshipers leave worship, they exhort each other, “kha-ZAHK ve’e-MATZ.”

And so today, as we leave our reflection time together, I exhort you … “be strong and courageous!”

Shalom  שָׁלוֹם,

DWach

PS … DJ Revonda offers this really worshipful Shane and Shane rendition of Psalm 27: