Paul McKenzie

Memory Verse, Thursday, February 19, Psalm 34:10

Kaph: "The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: But they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing."

We will see a theme, written by Paul many centuries later as we read the rest of this Psalm: "And we know that all things work together for good to them who love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)

The metaphor in "Kaph" contrasts the powerful lions who need to rely on their own strength for their survival, where one who trusts in the Lord can rely on His strength.

David is telling this to a suffering group, and encouraging them to not rely on their strength but put the Lord as their primary hope in all things. When we place our trust in Him, we pursue Him and His ways. We will make proper judgments, and work honestly and diligently for His purposes, which are always for our good, even though many times we cannot see it.

We have an attitude development when relying on Christ. We have not only a physical assurance, but the eternal understanding that all will be made right, if not in this life, then in the next. We are actually eternal children. Mortal death is just a step into eternity. It is a "preparation ground" for our souls, and an ambassadorship for the Kingdom as we live here.

David knew that God had anointed him as future king. Even though he was in desperate straits, he had the confidence that God's purpose would be accomplished. And his band of ragtag followers would all be working toward that eventual purpose, but in a way contrary to the norm. David had no intention to usurp the throne from Saul. He was going to wait on the Lord for that, and in the meantime protect the oppressed.

It is hard for us to grasp what God is doing in our lives. We live in both plenty and in want, in sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow, and often simply do not understand God's purpose for us here. Jesus gave us simple instructions as to how to work the works of God in our lives, and that is "believe on Him whom He has sent." (John 6:29)

It is really that simple and straightforward. We live our lives in belief that when we seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, we will be in His will. No matter what situation. No matter what vocation. No matter what location. The more we seek Him wholeheartedly, the more our desires align with His desires. And the more we realize that meaning and purpose in life is eternal life, life in the Presence and pleasure of our Creator. And His pleasure happens to be what will give us the most pleasure.

The people wanted more. They ignored his answer, and said: "What sign showest thou then, that we may see, and believe?" (John 6:30)

Isn't that just like us? We look for quick answers, magical "signs", put "fleeces" before the Lord to "find our calling". And in doing so we are completely missing the point. Rarely will you receive some "sign" or some "voice" telling you to do this or that. The will of God in your life is an abiding growth of wisdom through study, prayer and wise counsel with fellow pilgrims for the purpose of glorifying God, not being glorious before God by your mighty works and "mighty faith".

Read that oft-referred-to "hall of faith" in Hebrews 11. Take a close look at the "great things" these people did. When I read it, I find them placed in situations, not of their own doing but many times out of necessity. Their faith was not their mighty works, it was simply their obedience and foresight to the "better country".

They "walked". They sought God, not for their will and purpose, but simply resting in Him and living in Him, taking pleasure in Him, and constantly in preparation until the time He places them in situations where they apply what He has given them.

So much of our "need" and 'desires" are self-motivated. We want to "do something for God!". Do you want to do something for God? Believe on Him whom He has sent! Feed on the Bread of Life, and you will never lack, even when there is nothing in this life for you. For you were made for a better country, and will be filled completely and fully. "For now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then shall I know even as I am known." (1 Corinthians 13:12)

Kaph: "The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: But they that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing."

Today if you hear His voice, harden not your heart.

*KJV used*

Memory Helps

Kaph:

"The young lions do lack,
and suffer hunger:
But they that seek the LORD
shall not want any good thing."

We can picture hungry "young lions" looking all around for food, noses to the ground. But we are looking up, seeking the LORD, and the "bread of Life" is coming down to us, so we "shall not want any good thing".

With "Dai-Sy" duck as my "memory character" for 10 (D=1, S-0, vowels fillers), we are sitting on the "Singing Mare" (Singing for Psalm, M-R = 3-4 for chapter 34) singing God's praises as He is dropping the Bread of Life" from heaven. All around us are young hungry lions whose noses are buried to the ground looking for food. That way I link the verse to Psalm 34:10.