“He that rides to be crowned, will not think much of a rainy day.” –John Trapp
Seven times the psalmist sings out the glory of the voice of the LORD as displayed in the thunderous tempest. This particular storm, which began over the Great Sea (Mediterranean Sea), would find its way through the Lebanon range across the desert regions to shake the city of Jerusalem. The clapping of the thunder and the flashing of the lightning rang in David’s ears. It became for him the applause of the heavens which trumpeted with one voice, “glory!” David joins this chorus of praise by describing God’s coming in the storm, “The voice of the LORD…is over the waters…is powerful…is majestic…breaks the cedars…strikes with flashes of lightning…shakes the desert…and twists the oaks.” (v. 3-9) God’s agency through and majestic display in nature causes David to proclaim, The LORD is enthroned as king forever.” (v.10)
David not only attempts to describe the glory of God he also urges the hearer to ascribe glory to God. It is every person’s duty to give glory to God. This “giving” is a conscious choice that is made and must be made long before the arrival of any storm. The best way to give glory to God is to live a life centered on his word. God’s voice is barely audible in what is natural (storms, hurricanes, earthquakes, etc.) but it is clearly heard in what is supernatural (the Scriptures).
For this same reason, Jesus instructs us with the parable of the wise and foolish builders. (Matthew 7:24-27) The wise builders were the ones who listened to God’s word and put it into practice. They built their house (life) on Jesus’ solid principles. When the storms came, as they always do, and “beat against that house…it did not fall because it had its foundation on the rock.” (v. 25) However, the foolish builders were the ones who heard the teaching of Jesus and decided not to practice it. Of this house (life), Jesus laments, “it fell with a great crash.” (v.27) If you have felt the storms of life come crashing down around you and if you have wondered if your life would stand, please read Psalm 29:11, “The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.” (NIV) Have a blessed week and we will see you on Sunday.
Love in Christ,
Pastor Dale