Psalms Streak: A Daily Devotional in the PsalmsSample

Defend the Weak

Can you think of a news story this year that really made you sit up and take notice? Was there something that shocked you? How often do we hear the news and think, "Why doesn’t God do something about all of the hardship in the world?" Why are these things happening?

This Psalm gives us a window into the mind and heart of God for the oppressed and for those who are suffering. The psalmist is imagining God presiding over an assembly of “gods” (maybe like country leaders). He’s calling them out for how they treat people. “How long will you defend the unjust and show partiality to the wicked?” (vs) 2. He wants the Lord to defend the weak and the needy (v. 3 and 4), defend the weak and the fatherless, uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed, rescue the weak and the needy, and deliver them from the hand of the wicked. God's heart is bent towards people who are oppressed, orphaned, and weak. What does the Bible say about how these people are to receive help? God uses His people! That’s us! We know that these situations break His heart, and we know He wants to use us, so our response must be just like Isaiah: “Here I am; send me”.

GO DEEP: Is there a person who is oppressed or needy in your community who your small group could bless? Is there a people group who God is moving your heart to care about? Ask Him what your first steps are to bring His heart and kingdom to this people group.

BE BOLD: Who needs to hear this? Who could you share it with?