February 17

Introduction

Psalm 108: In today’s reading, the writer prays for help while he expresses confidence in God. Verses 7–9 refer to the land of Israel and its neighbors. Shechem was in the territory of Manasseh west of the Jordan River. Sukkoth and Gilead were in the territory of Manasseh east of the Jordan. The Ephraim tribe settled in central Canaan, and its name sometimes stood for the whole northern kingdom. Judah was the name for the entire southern kingdom. The people of Moab were descended from Lot, the nephew of Abraham (see Genesis 19:30–38), and Moab and Israel had been enemies in the past (2 Samuel 8:2). The people of Edom were descendants of Esau, one of Abraham’s grandsons (see Genesis 25:29, 30; 36:9), and they, too, had been enemies of Israel (2 Samuel 8:13–14).

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 108:5

Show your greatness in the sky, O God, and your glory over all the earth.

Reflect

You may wish to compare Psalm 108 with Psalms 57 and 60. Some scholars suggest that parts of these two psalms were combined to form Psalm 108. What verses speak of asking God for help against Israel’s enemies? What verses speak of trust in God? How do you experience confidence in God’s love for you?

Pray

Lord God, you are mighty and victorious. Whenever I need your help, I know I can turn to you, trusting that you hear my prayer. Hold me close to you and surround me with your loving presence. In your holy name, I pray, Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

John 7:1–24: Jesus returns to Galilee and meets with his brothers.