March 17, 2021
You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. Psalm 139:4-5
Verses 4 and 5 capture the heart of this psalm. David devotes most of his lyrics to the idea that God knows us and is engaged in every aspect of our lives. And because he is not limited by time or space, his knowledge of us precedes our conception (verses 15-16). Hence, he intimately hems us in like a brooding mother and pays close attention to our every thought. For some who are riddle by fear and shame, this can seem terrifying. For those of us who have a deeper understanding of our sinful nature and his amazing grace, these praises of David are a comforting and reassuring reminder of the marvelous God we worship and of how we are wonderfully made (verse 14).
Father God, thank you for hemming us in. Help us to grow in confidence of your majesty and power, your goodness and grace, and your never-ending love and care for us. Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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