Come, behold the works of the Lord, who has made desolations in the earth. He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire. (Psalm 46:8-9)
In consideration of the previous devotion, I think it is important to take note of something that can be easily overlooked in the passage above. The word “behold” conveys the idea that we are to look at something which, in this case, is the Lord’s handiwork. Specifically, the work of the Lord we are to behold is how He causes war to cease by destroying those who make war. On the surface, to end war by making war seems to conflict, but the Creator knows what is best and just for His creation. As I mentioned in the previous devotion, this idea might be difficult for some to perceive which brings us back to the word, “behold.”
The Hebrew root word is חזה chazah and means “to perceive with intelligence.” Interestingly, this word is also used in some verses to denote prophetic vision. In other words, the psalmist is challenging us to see beyond the surface of things and perceive the works of the Lord as they really are — not as man tends to view them. When we see people dying of hunger and suffering from disease, our typical human response is to point an accusing finger at God. When natural disaster strikes we tend to blame Him for allowing it to happen. Seldom, if ever, do we stop and consider that disease, disaster and the suffering that goes with it are the results of our actions, not God’s inaction. Moreover, if He were to miraculously rid the world of every kind of suffering in an instant, do you think we would change our ways as a sign of appreciation? Of course not — we would continue to do as we have always done.
And so, as difficult as it might be for some to perceive, the people of God are called upon to behold the works of the Lord and to know that He is always just and always righteous. Only by His determination to war against wicked men can the world be free of war. Only by allowing man to suffer the consequences of our sin can we ever hope to see the need for repentance. In the coming days, you and I will need to see and perceive the Lord’s handiwork in ways we may not have experienced as of yet; but continue to keep your focus on Him and He will guide us through what is coming upon the earth.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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