Daily Lesson for Wednesday 21st of May 2025
Read Psalms 5:1-12. In this work, David draws sharp contrasts between those who are lost and those who have been redeemed. Compare this psalm with the language of Revelation 14:1-12. What similarities do you find, and how does this inform your understanding of what it means to be a part of God’s last-day remnant movement?
Image © Jim Howard at Goodsalt.com
It is instructive to note that David insists that evil “may not dwell” with God (Psalms 5:4, ESV). The point of the tabernacle was that God might dwell among His people, and the same will be true in the kingdom of Christ (see Revelation 21:3). Those who would approach the throne of God must be redeemed.
It is also noteworthy that David describes an act of worship in Psalms 5:7, which is the core issue at stake in the great controversy. Revelation 13:1-18 mentions “worship” five times, and the three angels’ messages call the world to “worship Him who made.” David tells us that he “fears” God, and the message of the remnant calls the world back to “ ‘fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come’ ” (Revelation 14:7, NKJV).
Also notice how the redeemed of Revelation 14:1-20 are said to have “no deceit” (Revelation 14:5, NKJV) in their mouths; they are truth-tellers whose words and deeds reflect the righteous character of God. The wicked, according to David, have “no truth in their mouth” (Psalms 5:9, ESV).
It is an astonishing scene that John presents in this key part of Revelation: mere sinners have been pulled back from death and are privileged to stand in God’s presence. They did not earn this right; it is granted to them by the fact that the Lamb of God—the righteous Son of man—stands there with them. They are forgiven, redeemed; they no longer have to bear their own guilt (compare with Psalms 5:10), because the Lamb of God has borne it for them (compare with Isaiah 53:12 and 2 Corinthians 5:21).
Once God’s name is inscribed in your heart, it is hard to remain silent. God’s people deliver one final offer of mercy with a “loud voice” (Revelation 14:7). “But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them; let those also who love Your name be joyful in You” (Psalms 5:11, NKJV).
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Imagine standing before a holy and perfect God in judgment, with every deed you have ever done fully exposed before Him. What does this prospect tell you about your need of Christ’s righteousness? |
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