PSALM 41. For the director of music. A psalm of David.
Theme: A prayer for God's mercy when feeling sick or abandoned. When we are sick or when everyone deserts us, God remains at our side.
Author: David.
https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/41.html
1 Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the LORD delivers them in times of trouble. 2 The LORD protects and preserves them— they are counted among the blessed in the land— he does not give them over to the desire of their foes. 3 The LORD sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness. 4 I said, “Have mercy on me, LORD; heal me, for I have sinned against you.” 5 My enemies say of me in malice, “When will he die and his name perish?” 6 When one of them comes to see me, he speaks falsely, while his heart gathers slander; then he goes out and spreads it around. 7 All my enemies whisper together against me; they imagine the worst for me, saying, 8 “A vile disease has afflicted him; he will never get up from the place where he lies.” 9 Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me. 10 But may you have mercy on me, LORD; raise me up, that I may repay them. 11 I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. 12 Because of my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. 13 Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen.
Study Notes:
41:1 The Bible often speaks of God's care for the weak, poor, and needy, and of his blessing on those who share this concern. God wants our generosity to reflect his own free giving. As he has blessed us, we should bless others.
41:9 This verse is viewed in the New Testament as a prophecy of Christ's betrayal (John 13:18). Judas, one of Jesus" 12 disciples, had spent three years learning from Jesus; traveling and eating with him (Mark 3:14-19), and handling the finances for the group. Eventually Judas, who knew Jesus extremely well, betrayed him (Matthew 26:14-16, 20-25).
41:13 Psalms is divided into five books, and each one ends with a doxology or an expression of praise to God. The first book of the Psalms, chapters 1-41, takes us on a journey through suffering, sorrow, and great joy. It teaches us much about God's eternal love and care for us and how we should trust him even in the day-to-day experiences of life.
As I considered this psalm today, I thought about how I used to care for others. I considered how I still care today, but it has been distorted by layers upon layers of deception. I long for the simple honest caring for others done in complete truth, joyfully and selflessly. As God helped me think, it occurred to me that we can care for others and bring back integrity into our creations of care-giving. I saw this inspiration in others as I recalled posts about symposiums for restoring integrity to healthcare.
I delighted in seeing God at work again, and His awakening me to be able to see and recognize it.
Still, this holds: TRUTH -> INTEGRITY -> FREEDOM -> HEALTH.
Praise God. And have a blessed day.
Just what I needed to see - thanks! Trying not to lose patience with a neighbour who is a nuisance. I suspect she is an alcoholic, definitely weak and I should lift her up to the Lord instead of getting annoyed. Duly noted.
This world need to be cleansed of people who are self serving and promote those who serve others.
Many people do not know what a "servant leader" is. Jesus demonstrates what a servant leader is. My President also demonstrated it. The contrast we have now is stark and painful.
Thank you Amen.