For all his greatness, David was a man with faults like you and me. But what set David apart is that he knew what made him great was God’s hand, His favor, upon his life. And Psalm 138 is a brief but clear explanation of why I believe God’s hand was on David’s life. It was because of David’s humility. The theme is stated in verse 6:
For though the LORD is exalted, yet He regards the lowly, but the haughty He knows from afar.
David’s humility before the LORD is expressed in his giving thanks to Him with all his heart and singing praises to Him, instead of taking credit for his accomplishments (v. 1). It is also seen in David’s worship of the LORD for His divine attributes:
I will bow down toward Thy holy temple, and give thanks to Thy name for Thy lovingkindness and Thy truth;
For Thou hast magnified Thy word according to all Thy name (v. 2).
And they will sing of the ways of the LORD, for great is the glory of the LORD (v. 5).
Finally, David humbly calls upon the LORD in prayer, and is grateful to Him for strengthening his soul (v. 3), and for rescuing him in time of trouble (v. 7):
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, Thou wilt revive me;
Thou wilt stretch forth Thy hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Thy right hand will save me.
Every day I face the same spiritual battle – who is going to be in control of my thoughts, my attitudes, and my actions – me…or the Lord? Who decides? Me! I have the choice to proudly assume control, or humbly yield to His Holy Spirit within. Guess which choice brings God’s hand of favor! And it’s often the difference between a life of frustration and complaining, and a thankful heart of worship toward God that is in tune with His will. It’s similar to the teaching of Romans 8:6 – for the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace. The choice is mine!
Yours and His,
Pastor Ed