Praying Psalm 4

Yesterday in Psalm 3, we saw David deal with the betrayal of his son Absalom. In Psalm 4, David has a message for Absalom's followers and it speaks to sinners of all ages. He calls on them to abandon their hypocrisy, and the deceptiveness of temporary victories and fading glory. David wants them to stop their slander and recognize truth. Is there someone in your life that is blinded by deception and sin? If so, this Psalm gives you clear direction how to help them.

Psalm 4:3-8 says: You can be sure of this: The Lord set apart the godly for himself. The Lord will answer when I call to him. Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent. Interlude Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust the Lord.
Many people say, “Who will show us better times?” Let your face smile on us, Lord. You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe. (NLT) God grants His child peace; this not mean an easy life. There will still be trials and afflictions, but He will always be with us and He shall see us through to the end. His faithfulness is never an issue. The Treasury of David explains the connection to Jesus Christ: "Reader! let us never lose sight of the Lord Jesus while reading this Psalm. He is the Lord our righteousness; and therefore, in all our approaches to the mercy seat, let us go there in a language corresponding to this which calls Jesus the Lord our righteousness. While men of the world, from the world are seeking their chief good, let us desire his favour which infinitely transcends corn and wine, and all the good things which perish in the using. Yes, Lord, thy favour is better than life itself. Thou causest them that love thee to inherit substance, and fillest all their treasure."

Back to the original thought; what do you say to the deceived? This is a night time Psalm, it promises sweet rest. God gives His faithful sleep. The message to the deceived and sinner is: "how is your sleep?" Eventually, the sinner will loose his temporary joy that comes from sin. The loneliness and despair will be present. The rest that comes from Jesus is a witness that even in the midst of trial, we can have restful sleep! Pray the following today:
Let your face smile on me, Lord. I confess that You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain,new wine, and the pleasures of this world. You have given me peace and in peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe. Thank You Lord for rest.