Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.” vs. 8
Psalm 85:8-13
All of the prophets felt a call to bring the word of the Lord to the people of Israel and Judah. Most of the time it came as a warning of impending doom if idolatrous behavior didn’t come to an end. Again and again the prophet would thunder, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Unless there is repentance I will bring down my wrath upon this disobedient nation.’” The scenarios were different and the language would vary, but the tone was always one of judgment and destruction. But in this psalm the writer, using the voice of a prophet, brings a different message. There has been turmoil in the land, but now the Lord has a word of peace for the people. “Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other.” Thank God for prophets like this! Most of us are tired of the doomsday messages that tumble from the mouths of contemporary prophets. While perhaps necessary for us to hear, they inspire in us a spirit of gloom and hopelessness. How much more uplifting it is to hear that word of peace! Even if it seems unlikely to be true, it brings welcome relief to people of faith, and maybe that’s exactly what we need the most! Prophets of doom don’t always have the last word!
Thought for the Day: What prophets do I choose to listen to?
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