You can read the first part of this meditation on Psalm 4 here.
Verse 6 says, “Many are asking, ‘Who can show us any good?’ Let the light of your face shine upon us, O Lord.”
In the world today, it is easy to be discouraged by the dire situations we see around us: war, poverty, crime, a struggling economy, godlessness and unrest. So many are calling out during this time for a resolution, a change, a turn-around for the good. There is song by a group called Plumb that says, “There is a God-shaped hole in all of us, and a restless soul that’s searching. And it’s a void only He can fill.” While many turn to other people or policies to “fix” what’s wrong with the world, God is waiting to receive those who believe in Him. Life will not become perfect when one accepts Christ as their Savior, but the joy and peace that one feels despite circumstances is found only in Him. Nothing else will satisfy completely and fully.
“Do not trust in princes, in mortal men, who cannot save…Blessed is He whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God, the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them–the Lord, who remains faithful forever.” Psalm 146: 3,5
There was a song we had for our wedding called “Shine on Us” that incorporated the words of verse 6: Lord, let the light of your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. If you want to hear the song (it is beautiful and we had a quartet sing it!), go to youtube and type in Shine on Us Avalon.
Verse 7: “You have filled my heart with greater joy then when their grain and new wine abound.”
This highlights the importance of the crop to the Israelites. Many celebrations surrounded the harvest. Those of us who have a farming background can agree that the harvest is something about which to rejoice!
Verse 8: “I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
Imagine the fear David was experiencing throughout his life as many pursued him in order to take his life. And yet, even during these distressing times, he can “both lie down in peace and sleep”, as it says in the New King James Version. How many times have you lay awake at night, worrying about life’s many difficulties and trials? Sometimes I lay awake thinking of nothing, but yet unable to sleep! What a beautiful verse of this psalm to repeat to ourselves each night, having been assured of God’s goodness, His love, and His faithfulness.